EastEnders actress Lacey Turner has become the first celebrity to be announced for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 as bosses gear up for a fresh start for the BBC series
EastEnders actress Lacey Turner has been announced for Strictly Come Dancing 2026.
The popular BBC star was announced today as the first celebrity joining the show, which will return to our screens this Autumn and Winter. It is an early reveal for the show, who usually wait until the summer to make their cast announcements.
The BBC programme has been caught up with big changes this year, as five professional dancers exited the show in the biggest shake-up in years. Fans were devastated to bid farewell to Gorka Marquez, Michelle Tsiakkas, Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova, and Luba Mushtuk in a massive change for the show.
Lacey, of course known for her role as Stacey Slater in EastEnders, is one of many soap stars who have swapped Albert Square for the Strictly dancefloor and she will be joined by several other celebrities announced throughout the summer.
Speaking about signing up for the show, she said: “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!”
Strictly has also seen a huge change in regards to its presenters too, with Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman both stepping down after the Christmas special last year, and their replacements revealed as Emma Willis, Josh Widdecombe and Johannes Radebe.
There had been much speculation who might replace the pair, with suggestions including the likes of Zoe Ball, Rylan and Graham Norton. Chemistry auditions were held for the presenters, with Emma, Josh and Johannes chosen for the iconic job.
Speaking about joining the show, Emma said: “It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Strictly – I’ve cheered and danced along from my sofa for years – so to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can’t quite comprehend.
“It’s impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind – two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long. I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter. I can’t wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges.”
Johannes added “To be returning to Strictly Come Dancing in this new role is beyond anything I ever imagined. This show has always stood for joy, heart, and togetherness, and I feel deeply honoured to now help carry that magic forward.
“To do it alongside the formidable Emma Willis and the utterly brilliant Josh Widdicombe makes it even more special. I’m ready-sequins, nerves, and all…please bear with me. Love Jojo.”
Josh said: “Dancing the Charleston dressed as a penguin for the 2024 Christmas Special of Strictly remains my career high point, so I am giddy with excitement, honoured and a little overawed to be given the chance to step into the biggest shoes in television. I adore Emma and Jojo and can’t wait to spend my weekends with them. I’ll dust off the penguin costume.”
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