The anticipation for the new season of Strictly Come Dancing on BBC is always high, and 2023 is no exception. With the coveted glitterball trophy glistening in the spotlight, fans are on the edge of their seats, with every episode giving an exciting twist and celebrity line-up gracing the dazzling dance floor. Join us as we take a spin through the list of Strictly 2023 celebrity contestants and delve into their backgrounds, allowing us to get better equipped with the stars assured that shine on the dance stage.
What is the release date of Strictly Come Dancing 2023?
The highly anticipated twenty-first series of Strictly Come Dancing made its grand return with a dazzling launch show that aired on September 16, 2023, captivating audiences on BBC One. The excitement continued to build as the live shows commenced on September 23, 2023, marking the beginning of another thrilling season filled with remarkable dance performances and unforgettable moments. Moreover, the series is also available to watch on BBC iPlayer platform. If you want to explore through the platform, be sure to avail BBC iPlayer free trial. You checkout the best pricing plans for BBC iPlayer and cancel BBC iPlayer subscription whenever you want.
What is Strictly Come Dancing all about?
Strictly Come Dancing is a beloved British dance competition show that pairs celebrities with professional dancers, tasking them with mastering a wide range of dance styles, from ballroom to Latin. Throughout the series, contestants compete in intricate routines, striving for the coveted glitterball trophy awarded to the best dancer. The show’s charm lies in its ability to entertain and inspire, blending dazzling performances, sparkling costumes, and infectious enthusiasm, making it a favourite for viewers of all ages, while also allowing celebrities to showcase their dance skills and take on a new challenge. Furthermore, you can watch BBC iPlayer in the US, to watch this dazzling show that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seats. Moreover, you can also watch BBC iPlayer on multiple devices at once.
Strictly Come Dancing 2023- A sneak peak from the trailer!
The trailer provides a tantalising glimpse into the allure that illuminates homes nationwide, setting the stage for a season brimming with enthralling highlights, intense rivalries, and, above all, the infectious euphoria of dance. With every frame, it ignites a sense of eager anticipation and exhilaration, making for an enchanting prelude to the spectacular extravaganza that awaits in Strictly Come Dancing 2023.
Strictly Come Dancing 2023 celebrity contestants
The Strictly Come Dancing stage 2023 is another exciting season, featuring a diverse array of celebrity contestants. From actors and athletes to singers and presenters, this year’s line-up promises a captivating mix of talent and personalities. Moreover, you can also watch ‘Strictly: It Takes Two 2023’ on BBC iPlayer in USA for free, if you are a fan of similar shows. Let’s meet the stars who are gracing the dance floor and the nation’s hearts in Strictly Come Dancing season 21.
1. Annabel Croft
Annabel Croft, the former British Number One tennis player, who at 15 years old became the youngest British player to compete at Wimbledon in 95 years, is ready to trade tennis balls for glitter balls on Strictly Come Dancing 2023. The television presenter known for her work on Wimbledon coverage and entertainment shows like Treasure Hunt expressed her delight in joining this magical show, hoping to find joyfulness in the dance process.
2. Nigel Harman
Nigel Harman, a well-known actor celebrated for his roles in Casualty and EastEnders, is set to showcase his dancing skills on Strictly Come Dancing 2023. Having won an Olivier for his performance in Shrek the Musical and a National Television Award for his role as heartthrob Dennis Rickman, Harman is thrilled about this new dance adventure. He admitted to being amazed, excited, and slightly terrified to join Strictly, emphasizing how he’s been an armchair fan of the show for years and is now looking forward to twirling and gyrating across the dance floor.
3. Bobby Brazier
The 20-year-old high fashion model and EastEnders favorite, Bobby Brazier, the son of the late Big Brother icon Jade Goody and television presenter Jeff Brazier, is ready to dazzle on Strictly Come Dancing 2023. Apart from his acting roles, Bobby is also prominent on social media, advocating for mental well-being and spirituality. He commented:
“I’m so excited to be part of the Strictly line up. I can’t wait to start training like a professional dancer and adding a few moves to my locker. I’m looking forward to performing in front of everyone; it’s going to be so much fun!”
4. Ellie Leach
Ellie Leach, aged 22, is a talented actress best known for her role as Faye Windass in the long-running ITV soap, Coronation Street, where she spent 12 years before departing for new opportunities. Now, she’s set to dazzle the dance floor as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing 2023. Excited about this new chapter in her career, Ellie exclaimed:
“It still doesn’t feel real that I’m going to be doing Strictly!! It’s always been a dream of mine so I guess dreams really do come true!!!!”
Her youthful energy and passion for the show promise an exciting journey ahead.
5. Adam Thomas
At the age of 34, Adam Thomas is a versatile actor and television presenter who has garnered recognition for his roles in popular TV dramas like Waterloo Road and Emmerdale. He’s also known for his collaborative work with his brothers, Ryan Thomas and Scott Thomas. With enthusiasm, Adam said:
“I am so excited to be joining the cast of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. I’ve been such a big fan of the show for years, I can’t believe I’m actually doing it! I can’t dance to save my life but I’m buzzing to learn and have a good laugh with my pro. Get me on that dance floor…I can’t wait!”
His determination to learn and have fun on the dance floor will undoubtedly make him a charismatic contestant.
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6. Zara McDermott
Zara McDermott, aged 26, has a multifaceted career that includes reality TV stints on Love Island and Made in Chelsea, as well as documentary filmmaking for BBC Three. She rose to fame during her time on Love Island in 2018, and since then, she has made a name for herself in the world of television. Excited about her new venture, Zara stated:
“I am so excited to be joining the world of Strictly! I grew up watching it every year with my nan, and she was the biggest Strictly fan. We would dance around the house, and I have such fond memories of that time in my life. I can’t wait to throw myself into this experience and start training. It’s going to be incredible.”
Zara’s blend of reality TV experience and documentary work suggests she’s ready to embrace the dance challenge with enthusiasm and dedication.
7. Angela Scanlon
Angela Scanlon, a 39-year-old Irish TV star and TV presenter, is no stranger to the BBC, having previously worked on The One Show and Your Home Made Perfect. She also hosts the Saturday night chat show “Ask Me Anything” on RTÉ. Angela expressed a mix of excitement and nervousness about joining Strictly Come Dancing, stating:
“I’m panicking a bit… but also secretly thrilled about the prospect of all that glitter. I’m terrified, I’m excited, and I have so many questions. Will they make me tan? How itchy are sequins?! Do they do flesh-colored sports bras? Well – there’s only one way to find out, right?!”
8. Eddie Kadi
Eddie Kadi, a 40-year-old comedian, presenter, and actor, is a multi-award-winning stand-up comedian and radio presenter. He’s known for hosting the MOBO Awards and various international events, making him a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Eddie feels honored to join Strictly Come Dancing, saying:
“WOW. Anyone who knows me understands that music and dance are so important and central to who I am. I’m so unbelievably proud and honored that Strictly and the BBC have asked me to join the 2023 Team. I promise you, I’m going to give it everything I’ve got. This is going to be a VIBE!”
9. Krishnan Guru-Murthy
Krishnan Guru-Murthy, a 53-year-old journalist and newsreader, is one of the UK’s most recognizable journalists, known for his long-standing role as a presenter on Channel 4 News. His extensive career has taken him to various countries for reporting, including Afghanistan, Cambodia, India, Iraq, South Africa, and Yemen. Krishnan expressed his surprise and delight at joining Strictly Come Dancing, saying:
“I’m surprised, delighted, and slightly confused to find myself taking part in Strictly on the basis of ‘you only live once!’ I can’t wait to start learning to dance, but I am slightly worried about my general decrepitude. I know I’m going to love it and have a brilliant time and just hope I’m not the only one enjoying my participation.”
10. Layton Williams
Layton Williams, a 28-year-old actor, singer, and dancer, gained fame in the theater world with major roles in iconic shows such as Billy Elliot, Rent, Hairspray, and more. He has also appeared in TV shows like Bad Education, I Hate Suzie Too, and I Kissed A Boy. Layton expressed his excitement, saying:
“Absolutely buzzing to confirm that I will be taking part in THE most iconic dance competition in the UK! It’s time to bring it to the Ballroom. So excited to learn new skills from the best. Bring on the sequins… ALL the sequins!”
11. Angela Rippon
Angela Rippon, a 78-year-old newsreader and presenter, is a well-known figure in the world of broadcasting, having been the first permanent female journalist to present the BBC national television news in 1975. She also hosted the original dance show, “Come Dancing.” Angela, who is ready to become the oldest contestant in Strictly’s history, shared her enthusiasm, stating:
“Having been a fan of Strictly since day one, and as a former presenter of Come Dancing, this will be quite an adventure for me. A scary one, considering I’m about to be 79. But I’m really looking forward to the challenge, and perhaps being able to learn to dance the Argentinian Tango!”
12. Amanda Abbington
Amanda Abbington, the accomplished 51-year-old actor known for her roles in BBC One’s Sherlock as Mary Morstan and in ITV’s Mr Selfridge as Josie Mardle, is set to grace the dance floor of Strictly Come Dancing. She shared her excitement, revealing that the show provides her an opportunity to conquer her shyness and self-consciousness. The prospect of learning to dance has her incredibly thrilled, and she’s looking forward to the training, drawing upon her competitive spirit. Amanda’s anticipation is palpable as she can’t wait to embark on this exciting dance adventure.
13. Les Dennis
Les Dennis, the versatile 69-year-old TV presenter, actor, and comedian, took a daring step onto the Strictly Come Dancing stage. Known for his Family Fortunes hosting stint and appearances in Coronation Street, Les expressed sheer delight in joining the iconic show as he approached his 70th birthday. He never shied away from challenges outside his comfort zone, and Strictly stands as the ultimate one. Les eagerly embraced the glitter and sequins, ready to dance his way into new horizons.
14. Nikita Kanda
Nikita Kanda, the 27-year-old radio host and TV presenter, fulfilled her dream by joining Strictly Come Dancing. As the current host of the BBC Asian Network’s Breakfast Show and a nominee for Presenter of the Year at the Asian Media Awards, Nikita is no stranger to the entertainment world. She admitted she couldn’t believe her luck, calling it a dream come true. Nikita is eager to glam up, step onto the dance floor, and have glitter thrown her way. Her excitement is infectious, and she’s ready to shine under the Strictly spotlight.
15. Jody Cundy CBE
Jody Cundy CBE, the 44-year-old Paralympian cyclist and former swimmer with an impressive collection of medals from seven summer Olympics, including eight Gold, one Silver, and three Bronze, is ready to take on a different kind of challenge on Strictly Come Dancing. He’s enthusiastic about becoming a part of the Strictly family and immersing himself in the world of ballroom dancing. Despite being far from his usual sports arena, Jody welcomes the challenge and is eager to push his boundaries. He’s especially excited about embracing the glitter and sequins and looks forward to getting into the dance floor action. Jody’s positivity shines through as he can’t wait to dazzle with his moves.
Summing it up!
With these dazzling Strictly 2023 celebrity contestants on board, the show is running a sensational season. These dynamic contestants light up the dance floor with their unique talents and enthusiasm. As you tune into the show, it’s clear that you’re in for a thrilling ride filled with dazzling performances and memorable moments. Get ready as these stars take on the dance challenge, making Strictly Come Dancing 2023 an unmissable spectacle that promises excitement, entertainment, and pure dance magic!
