Strictly Come Dancing Feed

Closure of this blog

2024-09-17T13:26:53+00:00

We understand that a community has built up over the years and some of you will find this disappointing, however, in line with changing audience behaviours a decision has been made to direct users to our social channels where there are active communities discussing the show on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

The Strictly blog and its comment section will soon be closing in line with other blogs across the BBC, with content no longer being published or updated. This blog will remain open for 24 hours before closing to comments permanently.

Thank you for your contributions over the years, and we hope that you join us on our social channels.

Paul Merson joins our Strictly squad for 2024!

2024-08-12T18:00:00+00:00

Paul Merson is a former footballer and broadcaster.

Paul Merson made his debut playing for Arsenal Football Club when he was 17 years old and went on to win the PFA Young Player of the Year. Paul played for the club for over a decade, playing 424 times, scoring 99 goals and winning all domestic trophies, as well as the European Cup Winners’ Cup. Paul played 21 times for England, scoring three times and went on to play for Middlesbrough, Aston Villa, Portsmouth and becoming player manager at Walsall Football Club. Paul is now a football pundit and commentator and has written numerous books that cover his football career and personal life.

Paul Merson says: “Joining Strictly is a whole new ball game for me, but I’m going to tackle this challenge head on. I’m ready to swap the pitch for the Ballroom floor, so here’s hoping my two left feet can learn some moves and you never know, maybe I’ll be taking home the Glitterball Trophy!”

The news was revealed this evening (Monday 12th August) on The One Show on BBC One.

Sam Quek MBE is the fifteenth and final celebrity for Strictly Come Dancing 2024!

2024-08-12T18:00:00+00:00

Sam Quek is an Olympic and European Gold medallist, former England and Team GB hockey player and now a TV and Radio Presenter.

Sam Quek won 125 international caps for the England and Great Britain women’s hockey teams, including a Gold Medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics. In 2017, Sam Quek was awarded an MBE for ‘Services to Hockey’.

She is now a broadcaster and has presented on BBC ‘Morning Live’ and was a Team Captain on ‘Question of Sport’. Sam Quek presents for a range of sports including Football, American football, Rugby and Cricket. She co-anchored the BBC’s Tokyo Olympic Games Breakfast programme and regularly appears on programmes across the BBC’s radio channels.

Sam Quek says: “As a former hockey player I’m used to playing as part of a team, but the thought of dancing on the Ballroom floor in front of a live audience is quite daunting! I’m chuffed to be a part of this legendary show and Quickstep into the shoes of a performer, it feels absolutely surreal but I’m ready for every bit of the adventure."

The news was revealed this evening (Monday 12th August) on The One Show on BBC One.

Nick Knowles is our thirteenth celebrity for Strictly 2024!

2024-08-12T18:00:00+00:00

Nick Knowles is a BAFTA-winning TV presenter.

For the last 24 years, Nick Knowles has been the face of the BBC’s BAFTA-winning ‘DIY SOS’. Alongside this, Nick Knowles has always been passionate about travelling and most recently, worked with Channel 5 on various travel programmes including ‘Into the Grand Canyon’, ‘The Mighty Mississippi’ and ‘Nick Knowles in South America’.

Over the past two decades, Nick has presented across an extensive list of formats spanning news, factual, travel and entertainment and has solidified himself as one of the UK’s most familiar faces on television.

Nick Knowles says: “I’m so, so excited to be doing Strictly this year. People may be more used to me getting stuck in on a building site or travelling the world, but dancing live on TV will be a whole new adventure. I’ve spent my whole life learning new skills and I’ve never been afraid of a challenge - there’s life in the old dog yet to take on one more big one – being taught how to dance! I’ll give it my everything .... and try not to embarrass my kids of course!”

The news was revealed this evening (Monday 12th August) on The One Show on BBC One.

Montell Douglas is the twelfth celebrity confirmed for Strictly 2024!

2024-08-09T12:00:00+00:00

Montell Douglas or ‘Fire’ is a Gladiator and an Olympian.

In 2023 Montell Douglas was unveiled as ‘Fire’ in the BBC One series of Gladiators. She is a multi-talented sports star who has competed as an Olympic Bobsledder and Team GB Sprinter. In 2010, Montell Douglas won Commonwealth Gold in the 4x100m relay race. She also held the British woman’s record for fastest 100m sprint.

Her appearance at the Beijing Winter Olympics in the Bobsledding team etched her name into sporting history as she became the first female UK athlete to compete at both the Summer and Winter Olympic Games.

Montell says: “Strictly ARE YOU READY, Fire is here to light up the Ballroom. Wow I am so honoured to have been asked to do the show. It is such an amazing thing to be a part of and I can’t wait to get started. Hopefully a few of my Gladiator moves will come in handy with the Tango or Paso Doble!”

The news was revealed this afternoon (Friday 9th August) on the set of Gladiators filming at the Sheffield Utilita Arena, her bespoke Roblox character was also revealed on the platform on BBC Wonder Chase:

Tom Dean MBE is the eleventh celebrity contestant confirmed for 2024!

2024-08-08T11:09:12+00:00

Tom Dean is a three-time Olympic swimming champion.

Swimmer Tom Dean is a three-time Olympic champion. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics Tom Dean made history as the first British man to win a gold medal for the men’s 200m swim freestyle in over 100 years, going on to win a further gold medal in Tokyo and become England’s most decorated athlete at the subsequent 2022 Commonwealth Games, winning a total of seven medals. Most recently, Tom Dean brought home his third gold medal for Team GB from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in the team 4 x 200m freestyle relay.

Tom Dean says: “I am taking part in Strictly Come Dancing 2024! You may have heard me accidentally say it poolside first… but now I can officially talk about how excited I am to get stuck into something new, meet some brilliant people and get dancing. Bring it on!"

The news was revealed this afternoon (Thursday 8th August) on Matt and Mollie’s Show on BBC Radio 1.

Jamie Borthwick is our tenth celebrity for 2024!

2024-08-08T10:58:55+00:00

Jamie Borthwick is an actor.

Jamie Borthwick rose to fame for his portrayal as Jay Brown/Mitchell in the BBC continuing drama ‘EastEnders’ which he has starred in since 2006. He is now one of the longest serving actors on the show. In 2008 his role in ‘EastEnders’ earned him a British Soap Award for ‘Best Dramatic Performance from a Young Actor’, he then went on to win ‘Best Actor’ at the Inside Soap Awards in 2023. Jamie won the 2023 Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special.

Jamie says: “I had a ball doing the Strictly Christmas special last year, so when I was asked to join for this series it was the easiest yes! This is a fresh challenge and it will be so different to be learning a new dance every week and for the public to have their say. I’m hoping to be Salsa-ing around Albert Square in no time and I’ll be asking my Walford Strictly alumni for some words of wisdom. See you on the dancefloor!”

The news was revealed this afternoon (Thursday 8th August) on Matt and Mollie’s Show on BBC Radio 1.

Shayne Ward joins our line-up!

2024-08-08T08:00:00+00:00

Shayne Ward is an actor and singer.

Shayne Ward’s debut single and album topped the UK charts, with his single, ‘That's My Goal’ making it to Christmas number one after he won the second series of ‘The X Factor’ in 2005. As well as being an accomplished music artist, Shayne is a multi-award-winning actor with his character, Aidan Connor in ITV’s ‘Coronation Street’, earning him ‘Best Newcomer’ at the NTA’s and ‘Best Storyline’ at the Soap Awards amongst others. In addition, Shayne has performed in a number of musicals and feature films, including ‘Rock of Ages’ on the West End stage. He’s currently the lead character in crime-drama series ‘The Good Ship Murder’ on Channel 5.

Shayne Ward says: “I’m buzzing to see all of the sparkles and magic that is Strictly in real life. I’m no stranger to live TV, but dancing Latin and Ballroom in front of millions is a whole new level. No promises on my dancing ability, but I will give it my best shot!”

Sarah Hadland for Strictly 2024!

2024-08-08T08:00:00+00:00

Sarah Hadland is an actress.

Sarah Hadland has an extensive background in film, television and theatre. She is best known for her role as Stevie in the BAFTA nominated sitcom ‘Miranda’ as well as being one of the original cast members of the multi award winning series ‘Horrible Histories’, both for the BBC. Sarah was nominated for an RTS Award for ‘Best Comedy Performance’ for her leading role in ITV’s comedy series ‘The Job Lot’. Sarah has appeared in numerous films, including the Bond epic ‘Quantum of Solace’ and her notable theatre credits include ‘Noises Off’ on the West End.

Sarah says: “I cannot believe I am part of Strictly! I feel particularly excited to be part of such an iconic show in its 20th year. I’m so ready for the glitz, glam and glitter and hopefully I can make everyone watching at home proud!”

The news was revealed this morning (Thursday 8th August) on ITV's Lorraine.

Pete Wicks is the seventh celebrity contestant confirmed for Strictly Come Dancing 2024

2024-08-07T05:52:21+00:00

Pete Wicks is a TV personality, author, radio and podcast host.

Pete Wicks is best known for his television appearances and presenting including from the red carpet at the BRIT Awards, Pride of Britain Awards and National Television Awards. Pete Wicks first appeared on our screens on the BAFTA award-winning ITV show ‘TOWIE’ in 2015. Alongside this Pete Wicks co-hosts the award nominated podcast ‘Staying Relevant’ which has had over 5million downloads to date and has been number one in the comedy charts numerous times. Pete Wicks is also an animal rights advocate and supports many charities.

Pete Wicks says: “Dancing live in front of the nation every Saturday? Absolutely terrifying. But anyone who knows me knows I love a challenge and trying new things, so I'm genuinely looking forward to getting stuck in.”

The news was revealed this morning (Wednesday 7th August) on the Kiss FM Breakfast Show.

Tasha Ghouri is the sixth celebrity contestant confirmed for Strictly Come Dancing 2024!

2024-08-07T05:42:27+00:00

Tasha Ghouri is a model and TV personality.

Tasha Ghouri is passionate about raising awareness for the deaf community. She appeared on ITV’s ‘Love Island’ in 2022, and since then has amassed a following of over 2.2 million across her social media network. Tasha has worked with Number 10 Downing Street, The Department of Education and MED-AL to champion issues close to her heart. She is a published author with her debut novel “Hits Different” and has her own podcast, “Superpowers with Tasha”.

Tasha Ghouri says: “Pinch me, I can't believe I'm going to be on Strictly Come Dancing! I’ve been watching the show since I was little – it's a firm Ghouri family favourite - so this is a total dream come true. I know it's going to be an unforgettable experience and I hope to represent and make everyone proud out on that dancefloor.”

The news was revealed this morning (Wednesday 7th August) on the Kiss FM Breakfast Show.

It's no mystery Toyah Willcox joins Strictly Come Dancing 2024

2024-08-06T10:00:00+00:00

Toyah Willcox is a singer and actress.

Toyah Willcox has been performing across stage and screen for over 50 years. She is an award-winning rock legend with hit singles like ‘It's A Mystery’, ‘I Want to Be Free’ and ‘Brave New World’ and played at this year’s Glastonbury Festival with her husband, Robert Fripp. She has amassed thirteen top 40 singles, recorded twenty-five albums, written two books, appeared in over forty stage plays, acted in over twenty feature films and presented many television programmes.

In 2018 Paul McCartney awarded Toyah a Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts Companionship for Outstanding Achievement in music, drama, performance and media.

Toyah says: “Wow Strictly Come Dancing, can you believe it! This is going to be a wild and wonderful ride, and I'm here for every sparkly second. I’m used to performing for big crowds but this is completely fresh for me, how I will do, it’s a mystery… I just want to get cracking and learn some dance routines now!”

The news was revealed this morning (Tuesday 6th August) on Vernon Kay’s Radio 2 show.

Opera singer Wynne Evans joins our Strictly line-up

2024-08-06T10:00:00+00:00

Wynne Evans is a broadcaster, presenter, and professionally trained opera singer.

Wynne Evans is best known for his operatic skills, throughout his 25-year career he has had two number one classical music albums, has been a principal at most of the major opera houses around the world and has given over 200 performances at the Royal Albert Hall in London. Wynne currently has a daily radio show on BBC Radio Wales and has previously had radio shows on BBC Radio 3 and Classic FM.

Wynne says: “I am honestly still pinching myself, a portly balding opera singer, me, taking part in Strictly Come Dancing?! I’m not entirely sure how I’ll get along, if all else fails I’ll just have to learn the art of distraction. What I do know is I will give it my all and aim to make Wales proud. I’m definitely going to try and combine my love of Opera into one of my routines. Plus, after winning Celebrity MasterChef last year, maybe the route to the judges’ hearts will be through their stomachs!”

The news was revealed this morning (Tuesday 6th August) on Vernon Kay’s Radio 2 show.

Dr Punam Krishan is the fifth celebrity contestant confirmed for Strictly Come Dancing 2024

2024-08-06T09:24:19+00:00

Punam Krishan is a media medic and broadcaster.

Punam Krishan is a resident GP on BBC ‘Morning Live’ and BBC Radio Scotland. Alongside being a practising NHS GP, Punam regularly reports on health news as a broadcaster on TV, radio and national newspapers and has also written her own children’s book with additional books in the pipeline.

Punam says: “This still doesn’t feel real, I am overjoyed to be a contestant on this year’s show. I have watched Strictly every year with my family and it feels extra special that it’s the 20th year, I can’t believe I will be the one getting Strictly-fied now. This is so out of my comfort zone, but I’m up for the journey and will give it my absolute all.”

The news was revealed this morning (Tuesday 6th August) on Vernon Kay’s Radio 2 show.

JB Gill is the second celebrity contestant confirmed for 2024!

2024-08-05T08:55:35+00:00

JB Gill is a singer, TV presenter and author.

JB Gill rose to fame as a member of one of the UK’s biggest boybands – JLS, they have accumulated five number one singles, over 10 million record sales worldwide and have won a multitude of awards. JB Gill is also an avid and award-winning farmer and was the lead presenter on CBeebies’ BAFTA-nominated television series, ‘Down On The Farm’, Channel 5’s ‘On The farm’ series, plus contributions to the BBC’s ‘Countryfile’ and ‘Springwatch’. JB Gill has been a part of the presenting team for BBC ‘Songs of Praise’ since 2017 and has his own TV show ‘Cooking With The Gills’ on Channel 5.

JB Gill says: “I danced in the Strictly Christmas special over a decade ago and LOVED it, so when I got the call to join Strictly this year, it was an immediate yes from me. I’m raring to go to and looking forward to showing off some new skills to the JLS boys. From muddy wellies on the fields of my farm to sequins and Glitterballs - I’m here to embrace it all!”

The news was revealed this morning (Monday 5th August) on ITV’s This Morning.