Bethany Antonia, known for playing Lady Baela Targaryen in House of the Dragon, has been confirmed as the ninth celebrity contestant for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Bethany Antonia joins Strictly
Speaking about joining the show, Antonia said: “I can’t quite believe that I will be heading to the Strictly ballroom this September! I have grown up watching Strictly, and I am so excited to take the challenge on and (hopefully) learn a new skill. See you on the dancefloor!”
She also announced the news in a video on the Strictly Come Dancing Instagram page, describing it as "weird" and saying she was "absolutely terrified." She added: “I just can’t quite believe that I’m going to get the chance to hopefully learn how to ballroom and Latin dance.”
Reactions from the Strictly family
Professional dancer Amy Dowden welcomed her with "Welcome xxxx." Judge Motsi Mabuse said "Welcome @bethanyantonia let’s rock and roll," and head judge Shirley Ballas commented "Welcome" with a red love heart emoji.
Career highlights
Antonia began her acting career at 14, appearing in a short film adaptation of Shakespeare's The Tempest. She later featured in BBC soap Doctors, teen thriller Get Even, sitcom Stath Lets Flats, biopic Nolly, and Doctor Who. She gained global fame in 2022 for her role in House of the Dragon and is currently performing in the West End production of Hadestown as Eurydice.
Full line-up so far
Antonia joins previously announced contestants Jaime Winstone, Lacey Turner, Dani Dyer, Delta Goodrem, Chris Appleton, Cach Mercer, Will Best, and Dame Sarah Storey.
New hosts Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, and Josh Widdicombe will replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who left the show last year. The series will air on BBC One and iPlayer in September.
