A few months earlier than usual, the Strictly Come Dancing line-up is starting to take shape ahead of this year’s revamped show.
The 2026 series is still three months away, but the BBC is already announcing the stars set to compete for the Glitterball trophy.
This new series marks major changes in front of the camera following the departure of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, and a shake-up of the show’s pro dancer line-up.
The next era of Strictly will be led by Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and professional dancer Johannes Radebe.
Meet all the stars below as they’re announced – as well as other figures rumoured to be gracing the Strictly dance floor.
Confirmed
Lacey Turner
EastEnders star Lacey Turner, who has played Stacey Slater on the soap since 2004, was the first 2026 contestant to be announced. The actor has won multiple awards during her time on the show while also appearing in stage productions and TV dramas, including the lead role in BBC series Our Girl.
Turner said in a statement: “I am so excited to being making my way to the dance floor this year to be a part of Strictly Come Dancing!
“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!”
Dani Dyer
Former Love Island contestant Dani Dyer was set to take part in last year’s Strictly, but had to withdraw after injuring herself. Now, the TV personality – whose dad is EastEnders actor Danny Dyer – is being given a second chance by bosses.
“I’m so excited to say that I’m going to be back in the ballroom this September,” she told her fans. “I just cannot wait to get my dancing shoes back on and hopefully this time around I can actually make it to week one. I’m just over the moon and cannot wait to see everyone else that’s on it. See you soon, Strictly!”
Delta Goodrem
Australian singer, Eurovision star and former Neighbours actor Delta Goodrem said she is “thrilled” to be adding the Strictly stage to the many she’s performed on throughout her career.
“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,” she said.
“There is, however, one stage I’ve never stepped onto and that is the ballroom floor. I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Strictly and can’t wait to get started.”
Goodrem has also been a judge on The Voice Australia and competed for the country at the Eurovision Song Contest, finishing fourth earlier this year.
Rumoured
Jake Quickenden
According to reports, former X Factor contestant Jake Quickenden has “caught the eye of Strictly bookers”.
“He’s an actor and singer, so is a natural performer,” The Sun said of the reality TV stalwart who has appeared on I’m a Celebrity and won Dancing on Ice in 2018.
Quickenden’s possible appearance on Strictly was teased on Friday’s episode of Loose Women (12 June), when he introduced a competition for viewers. Afterwards, panellist Kaye Adams joked: “It’s a 10 from me!”
Dame Sarah Storey
Paralympian cyclist Dame Sarah Storey is another star being tipped for Strictly 2026. The Mirror reports that she is “delighted” about joining the show and is “really excited to be learning a new skill”. If her appearance on the show manifests, she’ll be the latest Paralympian to compete after Jonnie Peacock, Will Bayley, Jody Cundy and Ellie Simmonds.
