Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe have been announced as the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing (Image: Ray Burmiston/BBC/PA Wire)
Strictly fans are eagerly waiting to discover which famous faces could be taking to the dance floor. The beloved BBC competition series is set to return to our television screens in just a few months, and the show will have a distinctly different feel as the BBC has announced several major changes.
After weeks of speculation regarding the new presenting team, the focus has now shifted towards the celebrity contestants.
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Following the departures of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, a new presenting line-up has been confirmed, with broadcaster Emma Willis, comedian Josh Widdicombe, and professional dancer Johannes Radebe all set to take the reins.
The last series saw Lioness Karen Carney and professional partner Carlos Gu lift the coveted trophy, and, as anticipated, there is a host of celebrities eager to follow in their footsteps, reports The Mirror.
The actress is reportedly keen to use her break from Albert Square to explore fresh opportunities (Image: WireImage)
Having played EastEnders’ much-loved Stacey Slater for over two decades, Lacey Turner could soon be appearing on BBC screens in a completely different role.
Reports indicate the 38-year-old soap star is hoping to use her time away from Albert Square to pursue new ventures, with an insider telling The Sun: “Strictly bosses are delighted to snap Lacey up for the series, especially as she has such a huge fan base from her time on the soap.
“She’s down to earth, and viewers will be excited to get to know her personality away from Albert Square.”
The source added: “She has loved having some quality time off screen to focus on parenting, but feels like now is the perfect time to learn to dance and try something different before she reprises her role in EastEnders.”
Delta Goodrem
The Australian singer-songwriter reportedly been on Strictly producers’ radar for ‘years’ (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Australian singer-songwriter Delta Goodrem has likewise reportedly been in Strictly producers’ sights for ‘years’. A source informed the Daily Mail that her involvement this time around is “all but a done deal.
“They’ve been trying to get her for years. Obviously, she is a good name for the show.”
Josie Gibson
Josie wouldn’t be the first ITV daytime presenter to take on Strictly (Image: Getty Images)
Josie has become a beloved fixture on British television after rising to prominence following her Big Brother victory. The presenter is now a well-known face on This Morning and, in 2023, secured fourth place on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here.
Reports suggest she could be joining Strictly’s line-up. She wouldn’t be the first ITV daytime host to tackle Strictly, with past series showcasing the talents of Alison Hammond, Ruth Langsford, Charlotte Hawkins, and, notably, Ed Balls.
“Josie has been on the BBC’s radar for a while, and they’ve not given up their pursuit,” an insider disclosed. They went on to tell The Sun that discussions are currently taking place: “They’re hoping this year is the year, and talks are progressing well.
“Bosses are convinced her down-to-earth charm will be the boost this year’s new-look show needs,” the source also revealed. “Warm and engaging, she’s just what they require right now and will be a sure-fire hit with fans.”
Dani Dyer
Dani is keen to return after her time on the show was cut short (Image: Karwai Tang, WireImagevia Getty Images)
Dani Dyer endured one of the briefest Strictly stints on record last year, after being forced to withdraw shortly after the launch show due to a fractured ankle.
Her partner Nikita Kuzmin went on to reach the final alongside Amber Davies, while Dani was left watching proceedings from home as she recovered from her injury.
The former Love Island star has already made clear her eagerness to return for a full series, and it wouldn’t be without precedent — Jamie Laing famously made a comeback after an early injury cut short his initial appearance.
Speaking on The Jonathan Ross Show in the wake of her premature exit, Dani said she would “love to do” Strictly again. “If they rang me, I’d answer the phone,” she shared. “I was devastated.It was hell for me when I hurt my foot; I was so sad.”
