Strictly Come Dancing has left fans baffled after announcing EastEnders star Lacey Turner as the first contestant for the 2026 series, months earlier than usual. The 38-year-old actress, best known for playing Stacey Slater, is the first name confirmed for the upcoming season, which is set to undergo a complete transformation.
Typically, celebrity names are revealed throughout the summer, with last year's first announcement coming in mid-August. However, this year's early reveal has sparked confusion among viewers, with one Instagram user commenting: 'Is it that time of year already!? Better start putting Mariah on a slow defrost!' Another wrote: 'Gosh you know the year has gone by so fast if they are already revealing the celebs.'
Despite the early timing, there was excitement for Lacey, with her EastEnders co-star Alice Haig calling it 'so exciting', and last year's contestant Balvinder Sopal exclaiming: 'Yes, yes, yessss! Come on Lace. What a ride you are going to have.' Strictly professionals Lauren Oakley, Dianne Buswell, and Amy Dowden also welcomed her, alongside head judge Shirley Ballas.
Lacey said: 'I am so excited to be making my way to the dance floor this year to be a part of Strictly Come Dancing! I am a huge fan and can't quite believe I will be taking part and not watching at home this year! I look forward to meeting everyone and learning a new skill!'
The rest of the rumoured line-up includes Delta Goodrem, Jeff Brazier, Dani Dyer, and Josie Gibson, with further announcements expected in the coming weeks on BBC shows like BBC Breakfast and The One Show. The show is also set for a revamp, with sources claiming the dance floor and backdrop may be updated for a 'more sleek, impressive set' while retaining the traditional fun and sparkle.
