Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will begin on September 19, when the celebrity pairings with professional dancers are revealed in a pre-recorded launch show. The live episodes start the following week on September 26, with no elimination on that first night. The first couple will be eliminated on October 4 after a public vote, and the final airs on December 19 on the BBC.
New Hosts and Pro Dancer Changes
The show enters a new era with hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman replaced by broadcaster Emma Willis, comedian Josh Widdicombe, and pro dancer Johannes Radebe. The professional dancer line-up has also changed: Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas, and Gorka Márquez have departed, while Neil Jones and Nancy Xu will be benched without partners.
Full Celebrity Line-Up for 2026
Fifteen celebrities have been confirmed for the 2026 series. Returning contestant Dani Dyer, who withdrew last year due to an ankle fracture, said: 'I am so excited to be back in the ballroom this September! I just cannot wait to get my dancing shoes back on and hopefully this time around I can actually make it to week one!'
EastEnders star Lacey Turner, who plays Stacey Slater, 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!'
Australian singer-songwriter Delta Goodrem, who represented Australia at Eurovision 2026, said: 'I've been incredibly honoured to perform on many different stages throughout my career... there is, however, one stage I've never stepped onto, and that is the ballroom floor. I'm absolutely thrilled to be joining Strictly and can't wait to get started!'
Other contestants include: Gavin and Stacey star Melanie Walters, YouTuber John Nellis, Olympic gold medallist Tabby Stoecker, Emmerdale actor Lawrence Robb, dog trainer Graeme Hall, former footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips, House of the Dragon actress Bethany Antonia, blockbuster star Jaime Winstone, Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey, Big Brother presenter Will Best, influencer Cach Mercer, and hairstylist Chris Appleton.
Returning Contestant and Notable Names
Dani Dyer, who was originally partnered with Nikita Kuzmin last year, returns after her injury forced withdrawal. She previously said on The Jonathan Ross Show: 'If they rang me, I'd answer the phone. I was devastated. It was hell for me when I hurt my foot; I was so sad.'
Dame Sarah Storey, Great Britain's most successful Paralympian, said: 'Embarking on a new challenge so soon after stepping down as an athlete is hugely exciting. I have always loved watching Strictly, and my daughter, Louisa, is a very talented dancer, so to be able to learn from the best and hopefully understand even more about her world is incredibly motivating!'
Strictly Come Dancing returns to the BBC on September 19.
