Strictly Come Dancing 2026 celebrities have been seen arriving at the studio ahead of the new series, with the BBC One show set to return in September.
Celebrities Arrive in London
On Friday, August 14, stars including Eurovision singer Delta Goodrem, Love Island's Dani Dyer, and Emmerdale actor Lawrence Robb were spotted in London, preparing for their Strictly journey. EastEnders' Lacey Turner and other contestants were also among those heading into the studio.
The judging panel is back in full force, with Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton De Beke, and head judge Shirley Ballas set to score the celebrities and their partners each week out of 10.
Contestants Share Excitement
Actress Jaime Winstone expressed her enthusiasm, saying: "I am no stranger to a dance floor, but the ballroom is a whole new world for me. I love a challenge though, so can’t wait to enter my showgirl era and get super sparkly!! Let’s get physical – see you on the dance floor!"
Lacey Turner added: "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!"
Delta Goodrem remarked: "I’ve been incredibly honoured to perform on many different stages throughout my career - from tv, theatre, film sets, to touring my own shows around the world, there is however one stage I’ve never stepped onto and that is the ballroom floor!"
Dani Dyer, who had to withdraw from the 2025 series after fracturing her ankle in rehearsals, 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!"
More Stars and Fan Reactions
Former footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips, seen beaming outside the studio, said: "Dancing is in my blood—but mainly at family events! Strictly is definitely outside my comfort zone, but I’m super excited to get started and really looking forward to the challenge!"
Panto star Melanie Walters commented: "Performing in Pantomime for the last 15 years, my Strictly ‘fix’ has always been watching in a dressing room rather than my front room. This year I am completely thrilled and happy to swap my fairy wand for sequinned dance shoes."
Lawrence Robb shared: "I don't know who’s more excited about this, me or my Mother. I can't quite believe that I am going to be getting my dancing shoes on this September on one of my favourite shows of all time!"
Other contestants, including Cach, Chris Appleton, and Graeme Hill, also expressed their excitement in statements. However, some fans have criticized the line-up on social media, claiming the celebrities are not as famous as those from previous series.
