EastEnders star Nicholas Bailey has reportedly joined the lineup for this year's Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special, marking his first major television appearance outside of his iconic role as Doctor Anthony Trueman.
From Albert Square to the Ballroom
The 54-year-old actor, who recently made a shock return to the BBC soap after an 11-year absence, will be trading his stethoscope for dancing shoes this festive season. According to reports, Bailey brings previous theatre experience to the competition and plans to 'put on a show' for fans when he hits the dance floor.
Filming for the highly anticipated special is scheduled for December 9, with the programme set to grace our screens on Christmas Day, providing perfect festive entertainment for families across the UK.
A source close to the production revealed: 'Nicholas has one of TV's most recognisable faces but has never really stepped outside the character of Doctor Trueman. This will be the first time he's really strode out as Nicholas so this will be lots of fun for fans.'
Star-Studded Christmas Lineup
Bailey joins previously announced celebrities including TV personality Scarlett Moffatt and All Saints singer Melanie Blatt in what promises to be a glittering Christmas extravaganza.
The insider added to The Sun: 'He's quite the hunk, too, and has theatre experience which he showed off on Soapstar Superstar in 2006, so he looks set to put on a great show.'
Bailey's return to EastEnders earlier this year saw his character involved in explosive scenes alongside former girlfriend Zoe Slater, played by Michelle Ryan, thrilling long-time fans of the popular soap.
Festive Competition Heats Up
Melanie Blatt, 50, was announced as the second celebrity contestant on Monday, following Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt's confirmation. The All Saints singer will be paired with professional dancer Kai Widdrington, who previously danced with reality star Vicky Pattison in this year's main competition.
Speaking about her participation, Melanie expressed her excitement: 'If you can't have a dance at Christmas, when can you?! I'm so excited to meet Kai and start training to make this a dance to remember.'
The Christmas special will see six celebrities battling it out for the coveted Glitterball Trophy, with familiar faces Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman hosting the show for what will be their final time after 14 years presenting together.
The judging panel remains unchanged, with Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke all returning to deliver their expert critiques and scores.
Scarlett Moffatt revealed her participation during Friday evening's episode of Strictly: It Takes Two, confirming she'll be partnered with professional dancer Vito Coppola for the Christmas edition.
The Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer this Christmas, bringing sparkle and spectacular dance routines to households across the country during the festive season.
