The BBC has released the first trailer for the 2026 season of Strictly Come Dancing, officially signaling the start of the popular ballroom competition. This year introduces a new hosting dynamic with Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe taking the reins alongside Johannes Radebe.
The debut trailer features the new hosting trio emerging from a golden Strictly trailer, showcasing a glamorous and energetic tone for the upcoming series. This marks the first time the show will trial a three-host format, following the departure of previous hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Johannes Radebe assured fans that his professional dancing would still be a key feature, and the trailer includes glimpses of him dancing with other professional partners. Judges Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood, and Anton Du Beke are also featured.
The celebrity pairings for the 2026 season will be revealed differently this year. Instead of pre-filmed clips, the celebrities will discover their professional dance partners live in front of the studio audience through specially choreographed group routines. This reveal will open the show, which is set to feature more dancing than in previous years.
The launch show will also offer viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the initial rehearsals. Last year's champion, Karen Carney, will return to perform her football jive with Carlos Gu.
A number of professional dancers are returning, including Amy Dowden, Dianne Buswell, Carlos Gu, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Jowita Przystał, Aljaž Škorjanec, Alexis Warr, Kai Widdrington, Nancy Xu, Lauren Oakley, Julian Caillon, and Vito Coppola. However, Nadiya Bychkova, Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas, Luba Mushtuk, and Gorka Marquez will not be returning this season.
The celebrity lineup for 2026 includes a diverse range of personalities. Among the confirmed contestants are Lacey Turner, Delta Goodrem, Cách Mercer, Dame Sarah Storey, Bethany Antonia, Graeme 'The Dogfather' Hall, Tabby Stoecker, Melanie Walters, Dani Dyer, Chris Appleton, Will Best, Jaime Winstone, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Lawrence Robb, and John Nellis. Some of the more recognizable names include EastEnders actress Lacey Turner, singer Delta Goodrem, and Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey. Other contestants bring different forms of fame, such as Love Island winner Cách Mercer and Coronation Street star Will Best, as well as reality TV personalities and social media influencers.
The show is set to premiere on September 19, with the trailer highlighting the glamour and excitement anticipated for the new season.