“THEY FINALLY GOT HER.” After years of speculation, fan campaigns, and near-constant rumours, BBC bosses have finally secured one of the most sought-after names ever linked to Strictly Come Dancing. The star, who has spent years at the centre of some of Britain's biggest television storylines, is officially heading to the ballroom — and fans are already predicting she could become one of the most talked-about contestants of the entire season. For years, viewers wondered whether it would ever happen. Now it has — and many believe this could be the signing that changes the entire race for the Glitterball before it has even begun

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

(Image: BBC)

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.

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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!”

“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.”