Strictly Come Dancing has officially unveiled its first contestant for the upcoming series, with EastEnders star Lacey Turner confirmed to take to the ballroom floor this autumn. The BBC's beloved dance competition returns in September 2026, featuring a fresh roster of celebrities ready to compete for the coveted glitterball trophy.
Lacey Turner Joins the Lineup
Lacey Turner, best known for her iconic portrayal of Stacey Slater on the long-running soap opera EastEnders, will make her debut on the dance show in September. Expressing her enthusiasm, Turner said: "I am so excited to be 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!" She added: "I look forward to meeting everyone and learning a new skill!"
The announcement marks the beginning of a thrilling new season, and fans are eagerly anticipating the full list of celebrities set to compete.
New Hosting Trio Revealed
In addition to the contestant reveal, the BBC has confirmed a major change behind the scenes: a trio of new hosts for the first time in the show's history. Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe will jointly present the series, replacing previous hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who departed in 2025 after their final episode aired on Christmas Day.
The exciting news was shared via the show's official Instagram account, featuring a video with two wooden stools. Emma Willis, known for presenting Big Brother, was the first to sit down, followed by professional dancer Johannes Radebe. Just as fans thought the lineup was complete, comedian Josh Widdicombe emerged from behind the camera to join them, confirming the trio as the permanent presenters.
This marks the first time Strictly Come Dancing has had three permanent presenters since Sir Bruce Forsyth shared hosting duties with Claudia Winkleman during his later years on the programme.
What to Expect This Season
Strictly Come Dancing returns in September 2026, promising dazzling performances, stunning costumes, and unforgettable moments. With a new hosting team and a fresh batch of celebrities, the show continues to evolve while maintaining its beloved format. Fans can look forward to weekly live shows, judges' critiques, and the public vote that determines who stays and who goes.
Stay tuned for more contestant announcements as the premiere date approaches.
