The glitterball is being polished and the dancing shoes are being laced up as the BBC reveals the first wave of celebrities joining the highly anticipated Strictly Come Dancing 2024 season.
Meet the First Nine Contestants
In an exciting reveal that has set social media abuzz, nine famous faces have been confirmed for the new series, promising another spectacular season of sequins, salsa and sensational moves.
Chris McCausland, the beloved comedian and presenter, makes history as the first blind contestant to compete in the main series, bringing his infectious humour and determination to the dancefloor.
From the world of television, Shayne Ward, the former Coronation Street actor and X Factor winner, joins the lineup, while Pete Wicks of The Only Way Is Essex fame is set to trade his Essex swagger for some serious dance moves.
Sporting Legends Take to the Floor
The sporting world is well represented with Sam Quek, the Olympic gold medal-winning hockey star, and Tommy Fury, the professional boxer and reality TV personality, both confirmed to be putting on their dancing shoes.
Jamie Borthwick, who plays Jay Brown in EastEnders, will be swapping Albert Square for the ballroom, while JB Gill from JLS brings his boyband experience to the competition.
Comedy and Presenting Talent
Nick Knowles, the DIY SOS presenter, is set to bring his trademark charm to the dancefloor, and Paul Merson, the former Arsenal and England footballer turned pundit, completes the initial lineup.
While these nine celebrities have been officially confirmed, the BBC has hinted that more big names will be announced in the coming days, building excitement for what promises to be one of the most diverse and entertaining Strictly lineups in recent years.
With professional dancers already in training and the iconic Elstree Studios preparing for another season of Saturday night magic, Strictly fans have plenty to look forward to when the show returns to BBC One this autumn.
