Strictly launch shake-up
Strictly Come Dancing enthusiasts will be thrilled with the latest news just weeks ahead of the 2026 series launch. The prime-time BBC programme has already seen significant alterations with Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe poised to replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as presenters and five fresh professional dancers joining the roster.
Additionally, former contestant Ellie Taylor has been confirmed as the new presenter of Strictly spin-off programme It Takes Two, taking over from Janette Manrara and her co-host Fleur East. Yet, it seems the cast isn't the only element receiving an overhaul as contestant Graeme Hall revealed that producers have ditched the introductory video packages previously used to unveil which celebrity had been paired with which professional.
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Speaking on Radio Northampton, the podcaster and dog trainer explained: "This year, they're doing it slightly differently. We don't find out until the launch show. You have no say in it, the pros have no say in it."
In recent years, the pre-recorded launch programme had featured the celebrities travelling to venues around the nation to meet the professional dancer they would be matched with for the series.
Yet, producers have opted to return to the pre-Covid arrangement where the pairings would be revealed live in the studio, with the dancers and celebrities discovering their partners simultaneously with the audience. Joining Graeme on the bill are Lacey Turner, Dani Dyer, Delta Goodrem, Chris Appleton, Cach Mercer, Jaime Winstone, Will Best, Sean Wright-Phillips, Bethany Antonia, Lawrence Robb, John Nellis, Tabby Stoecker, Dame Sarah Storey and Melanie Walters.
A host of familiar pros are making their return, though Gorka Marquez, Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas, Luba Mushtuk and Nadiya Bychkova have all confirmed their departure from the programme.
Aleksandra Isaeva, Cristian Priori, Lethabo Monametsi, Maddie Ingoldsby and Mark Karmalita are poised to grace the dance floor for the very first time when the new series kicks off next month.
Sarah James, Executive Producer, BBC Studios, said: "Aleksandra, Cristian, Lethabo, Maddie and Mark are all outstanding world class dancers and we can't wait to see them shine under the Strictly glitterball this September."
Jo Wallace, Senior Commissioning Editor, BBC Entertainment, said: "It's so exciting to welcome the brilliantly talented Aleksandra, Cristian, Lethabo, Maddie and Mark.
"As if the return of Strictly wasn't shaping up to be fab-u-lous enough already, they're five more reasons why the new series is not to be missed."