In an exciting announcement, actress Jaime Winstone has officially signed on to participate in the 2026 series of the beloved dance competition, Strictly Come Dancing. Known for her dynamic roles in productions such as Made in Dagenham and EastEnders, Winstone becomes the eighth celebrity to join this year’s impressive roster, which includes a host of familiar faces like Delta Goodrem, Lacey Turner, and Dani Dyer.
Winstone’s Dance Journey Begins
Winstone, who garnered acclaim for her portrayal of the legendary Barbara Windsor in the BBC biopic Babs, expressed her enthusiasm for stepping onto the dance floor. “I’m so excited to be joining the competition,” she declared. While she admits to having some experience on the dance floor, she acknowledged that ballroom dancing presents a fresh set of challenges. “This is a whole new world for me,” she remarked, adding, “I love a challenge though, so can’t wait to enter my showgirl era and get super sparkly!”
Her career, which launched in 2004, boasts an impressive array of film and television credits, including Bullet Boy, Tomb Raider, and stage productions like 2:22 A Ghost Story. Winstone’s versatility has made her a well-respected figure in the industry, and her participation in Strictly is likely to draw a significant audience.
A Diverse Line-Up of Celebrity Contestants
Alongside Winstone, the line-up features an eclectic mix of personalities, each bringing their own flair to the competition. Dame Sarah Storey, celebrated as Britain’s most successful Paralympian, has also been announced. With an incredible 19 gold medals from nine Paralympic Games, Storey is eager to embrace the challenge of dancing. “I have always loved watching Strictly, and my daughter Louisa is a very talented dancer, so to be able to learn from the best is incredibly motivating!” she shared.
Host Will Best, known for his role in Big Brother, also joins the fray. Expressing his excitement, he said, “It’s an absolute dream to take to the dance floor, albeit a pretty terrifying one.” Best is set to bring his charisma and energy to the competition, although he admits he is uncertain of his dancing abilities.
Rising Stars and Established Talent
Cach Mercer, who gained fame on Love Island, will also be part of this year’s series. The model and DJ has a passion for dance and is enthusiastic about learning ballroom techniques. “Dancing is a huge passion of mine, and I can’t wait to learn the foxtrot for the first time!” he said. Similarly, Australian singer and actress Delta Goodrem expressed her eagerness, stating, “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Strictly and can’t wait to get started.” With a successful career across multiple entertainment mediums, her participation is sure to draw in her dedicated fanbase.
Other notable contestants include celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton, who is known for creating iconic looks for stars like Kim Kardashian and Ariana Grande. Appleton is eager to explore the dance floor, acknowledging, “I may know my way around a salon floor, but the dance floor is a whole different story.”
The Anticipation Builds
Lacey Turner, famously known for her role as Stacey Slater in EastEnders, was the first contestant announced for this season. “I’m so excited to be making my way to the dance floor,” she said, expressing both excitement and trepidation about the experience. Dani Dyer, who faced an unfortunate injury last year, is making a triumphant return, eagerly anticipating the chance to finally compete.
The anticipation around the show is palpable, especially with the announcement of a new presenting trio, Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis, and Johannes Radebe. This change marks a new chapter for Strictly, following the departures of long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
A Season of Change
This year’s series promises a blend of familiar elements alongside fresh twists, as head judge Shirley Ballas hinted at some exciting surprises. “There are going to be some people on there that will make you go ‘wow’,” she noted. With returning judges including Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke, audiences can expect a mix of expertise and entertainment.
The first announcements of the line-up came earlier than usual, signalling a renewed commitment to engaging viewers. The 2026 season is set to begin in September, and fans are already buzzing with speculation about the contestants and what lies ahead.
Why it Matters
The inclusion of diverse talents like Jaime Winstone and Dame Sarah Storey in the Strictly Come Dancing line-up not only enhances the show’s appeal but also reflects a broader cultural shift towards inclusivity in entertainment. As these celebrities step out of their comfort zones, they inspire audiences to embrace new challenges, proving that the dance floor can be a transformative space for everyone, regardless of their background. This season promises to deliver not just awe-inspiring performances, but also stories of resilience and personal growth, making it a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.
