Strictly Come Dancing fans are eagerly anticipating the 2026 series, which promises a host of changes and a fresh line-up of celebrity contestants. Following the departure of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, the BBC has confirmed a new presenting trio: broadcaster Emma Willis, comedian Josh Widdicombe, and professional dancer Johannes Radebe. With last year's champion Lioness Karen Carney and partner Carlos Gu taking the glitterball trophy, attention now turns to who will follow in their footsteps.
Rumoured Contestants for 2026
Lacey Turner
EastEnders star Lacey Turner, known for her iconic role as Stacey Slater, is reportedly keen to take a break from Albert Square and explore new opportunities. The 38-year-old actress has a huge fan base, and insiders suggest Strictly bosses are delighted to have her on board. She has enjoyed time off for parenting but feels now is the perfect moment to learn to dance before reprising her soap role.
Josie Gibson
Big Brother winner and This Morning presenter Josie Gibson is another name in the mix. Having finished fourth on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! in 2023, she could become the latest ITV daytime star to join Strictly, following Alison Hammond and Ruth Langsford. Sources claim the BBC has pursued her for a while, and talks are progressing well, with bosses convinced her warm, down-to-earth charm will boost the new-look show.
Delta Goodrem
Australian singer-songwriter Delta Goodrem has reportedly been on Strictly producers' radar for years, and her participation is said to be almost a done deal. A source told the Daily Mail that she is a good name for the show and producers have long sought to secure her.
Dani Dyer
Dani Dyer, who had one of the shortest Strictly appearances last year due to a fractured ankle, is eager to return for a full run. Paired with Nikita Kuzmin, she was forced to withdraw after the launch show. Speaking on The Jonathan Ross Show, she expressed her devastation and said she would love to do Strictly again if given the chance. Her return would follow precedent, as Jamie Laing famously came back after an early injury.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to the BBC in September 2026.
