Will Best, the 41-year-old presenter known for hosting ITV's Big Brother revival with AJ Odudu, has been confirmed as a contestant on the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing. The BBC announced his participation as part of the cast reveal for the forthcoming season, which also includes Lacey Turner, Dani Dyer, Delta Goodrem, Chris Appleton, and Cach Mercer.
Will Best Enthusiastic but Uncertain About Dance Skills
Speaking about joining the show, Best expressed both excitement and nervousness. 'I can't quite believe it... I'm doing Strictly! What an absolute dream. Albeit a pretty terrifying one,' he said. 'I've been lucky to do lots of live telly before, but absolutely nothing like this. And I cannot wait! I have no idea if I can actually dance, but bring on the sequins, bring on the quicksteps, bring on the dance floor! I'm going to try to enjoy every minute of it.'
Best Also Appearing on Alan Carr's Picture Slam
Strictly is not the only BBC programme featuring Best this year. He has also been confirmed as a contestant on the game show Picture Slam, hosted by Alan Carr. The show, which first aired in 2023, is introducing celebrity guest specials for the first time, including a Christmas special. Best will appear alongside Fleur East, the former host of Strictly's It Takes Two.
Best Focused on Fun, Not Winning
When asked about participating in Picture Slam, Best made clear his priorities. 'Really excited, it's a great show, and I do watch it. It blows my mind how good the contestants are. But I'm here to have fun. I'm not here to try and win, I am here to have a good time. I am doing it with my mate Fleur East, which is great. So, we will have a laugh,' he told the BBC.
Other Celebrity Guests Confirmed for Picture Slam
Additional celebrity special appearances include former BBC Breakfast presenter Steph McGovern alongside Gareth Malone, and Jamie-Lee O'Donnell paired with Ellie Taylor. BBC viewers will also see Richie Anderson compete with Jason Mohammad, Lee Latchford-Evans with Kéllé Bryan, and Charlie Brooks with Sue Cleaver. Alan Carr's Picture Slam returns for its fourth series on BBC iPlayer and BBC One on Saturday, July 18.
