Chris Appleton, the renowned hairstylist for celebrities like Kim Kardashian, was spotted undergoing a demanding workout session in a London park on Sunday. The 43-year-old is preparing for his upcoming debut on the BBC's popular dance competition, 'Strictly Come Dancing,' set to premiere next month.
Appleton was seen being put through his paces by a personal trainer in Hyde Park. He displayed a toned physique in black shorts and a grey hoodie, which he removed as he engaged in activities such as skipping and sprinting. The session also included lunges and exercises with dumbbells and kettlebells, indicating a comprehensive approach to his physical preparation.
Appleton, known globally for his hairstyling work with a roster of high-profile clients including Jennifer Lopez, Sofía Vergara, Ariana Grande, and Katy Perry, has been recognized by Vogue UK as a 'Hair Star.' His involvement in 'Strictly Come Dancing' marks a new venture outside his established career.
He has expressed a desire to be partnered with US dancer Alexis Warr, who was a runner-up in the previous season. Warr first gained recognition in the US by winning 'So You Think You Can Dance' in 2022.
Appleton is part of the diverse 2026 'Strictly' lineup, which also features actors, athletes, and television personalities. The casting for this season has reportedly focused on celebrities with significant social media followings, a strategy intended to attract younger viewers, mirroring a successful approach by the show's American counterpart, 'Dancing With The Stars.' This casting choice has led to some public criticism, with segments of the audience deeming the lineup less star-studded than in previous years. An insider suggested that this strategy aims to broaden the show's appeal beyond its traditional audience by leveraging the substantial online reach of its celebrity contestants.