The 2026 cast of Strictly Come Dancing has been revealed in a series of dazzling, sequin-clad photographs ahead of the show's September 19 return. This season marks a significant overhaul, including a new presenting team and a strategic focus on contestants with strong social media followings.
Among the celebrities debuting their dancefloor looks are Dani Dyer, 30, who returns after a previous season-ending injury, sporting a purple fringed dress. EastEnders actress Lacey Turner, 31, appears in an orange version of the same design, while Australian singer Delta Goodrem, 41, is seen in gold. Melanie Walters, 64, known for her role in "Gavin & Stacey," undergoes a notable transformation, trading her character's signature aprons for a metallic dress.
The male cast members are showcased in shades of red and purple satin. Will Best, 41, host of "Big Brother," and Chris Appleton, 43, Kim Kardashian's hairstylist, are among those seen in the vibrant ensembles.
Other notable cast members joining the competition include actress Jaime Winstone, former footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips, Olympians Dame Sarah Storey and Tabby Stoecker, Love Island winner Cach Mercer, "House of the Dragon" star Bethany Antonia, dog trainer Graeme Hall, "Emmerdale" actor Lawrence Robb, and sports YouTuber John Nellis.
This 24th series of "Strictly Come Dancing" features a revamped presenting lineup following the departures of long-time hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly. Emma Willis, comedian Josh Widdicombe, and professional dancer Johannes Radebe have been announced as the new trio.
In a recent interview, the new hosts described their dynamic as "very open," with no direct replacements for the previous hosts. They explained that the format is still evolving, with extensive production days dedicated to finding their rhythm as a team. Widdicombe likened their approach to "total football," suggesting a flexible and dynamic on-screen presence.
The show's producers have implemented a casting strategy that prioritizes celebrities with significant social media followings, a move reportedly aimed at attracting a younger demographic. This approach mirrors that of its U.S. counterpart, "Dancing With The Stars," which has successfully leveraged social media platforms. For instance, "Dancing With The Stars" saw an increase in younger viewer engagement following its "TikTok Night."
Chris Appleton, despite not being a universally recognized household name, commands a substantial Instagram following of 4 million. John Nellis, a sports YouTuber, boasts an even larger audience with 15.7 million YouTube subscribers. This focus on digital influence contrasts with a perceived decline in more traditional pipelines for celebrity talent, such as former boyband members or established soap opera actors.
The strategy extends to the professional dancers, with insiders suggesting that dancers possessing larger online followings have been retained or prioritized over those with less digital engagement. This is exemplified by the continued presence of Dianne Buswell, who has a significant following on Instagram and TikTok, compared to others with smaller online fanbases who were reportedly let go.
Five new professional dancers have also been recruited, some of whom have considerable followings on platforms like TikTok. The new hosting team also brings a strong digital presence, with Emma Willis having 2 million Instagram followers and Johannes Radebe with 458,000 followers.
The BBC faces challenges in securing major celebrity contestants compared to previous years, attributed to shifts in the entertainment industry. The diminishing prevalence of artists from boybands and girlbands, and a perceived decrease in the impact of casting actors from major dramas or soaps, has led the broadcaster to increasingly turn to the booming social media landscape for talent.
"Strictly Come Dancing" will premiere on BBC iPlayer and BBC One at 7:25 p.m. on Saturday, September 19.