Football legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink is trading his boots for dancing shoes as he becomes the latest high-profile name confirmed for Strictly Come Dancing 2024. The former Chelsea and Leeds United striker joins what promises to be one of the most exciting lineups in the show's history.
The 52-year-old Dutch-born sports pundit expressed his excitement about the new challenge, stating: "I'm absolutely thrilled to be part of this year's Strictly Come Dancing. I've been a huge fan of the show for years and can't believe I'll actually be putting on my dancing shoes and learning to dance in front of the British public."
Star-Studded Lineup Revealed
Hasselbaink joins an impressive roster of celebrities already announced for the upcoming season. The lineup includes:
- Hannah Waddingham - Emmy-winning Ted Lasso star
- Nick Knowles - DIY SOS and game show presenter
- Pete Wicks - TOWIE reality television personality
- Chris McCausland - Comedian and actor
From Pitch to Dance Floor
The former Premier League star, who scored 127 goals in 288 English league appearances, acknowledged that dancing presents a completely different challenge to football. "This is definitely outside my comfort zone," Hasselbaink admitted. "I'm used to scoring goals on the pitch, not perfecting my footwork on the dance floor, but I'm ready to give it my all and hopefully make everyone proud."
BBC executives are reportedly delighted with the diverse casting for the 2024 season, which blends sports personalities, television stars, and entertainment figures. The show continues to be one of the corporation's most successful entertainment formats, regularly pulling in over 8 million viewers per episode.
Autumn Launch Expected
While exact dates haven't been confirmed, Strictly Come Dancing typically launches in September, running through to the grand final in December. The show will once again be broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman expected to return as hosts.
Professional dancers and judges are yet to be officially confirmed, but insiders suggest most of the regular team will be returning for the new season. Bookmakers have already begun offering odds on which celebrity might lift the coveted Glitterball Trophy, with early predictions favouring the show's experienced performers.
