Strictly Come Dancing has confirmed the first celebrity contestant for the 2026 series.
Lacey Turner, known for playing Stacey Slater on EastEnders, will take to the dancefloor later this year.
She began acting at a young age and joined the BBC soap in 2004.
The actress has won multiple awards for her work on the show, including several British Soap Awards and National Television Awards.
Beyond EastEnders, Lacey has appeared in a range of stage productions and television dramas, including the lead role in the acclaimed BBC drama Our Girl.
Lacey 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!"
Fans shared their excitement as the first contestant was revealed on Instagram.
One said: "Oh my god amazing!!!"
Someone else commented: "Wait celeb reveals announced early!?!?
"But also woooo Lacey gonna be amazing".
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Another person was surprised to see a contestant confirmed already: "The show doesn’t start for 3 months !! This is so quick".
Strictly Come Dancing new hosts announced for 2026
This year, Strictly will see three new hosts, including professional dancer Johannes Radebe, who is no stranger to the BBC show.
Broadcaster Emma Willis and comedian Josh Widdicombe also join Radebe as hosts.
The trio replace former presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who announced their departure from the programme in October 2025.
Further news about Strictly Come Dancing 2026 will be revealed throughout the summer ahead of the brand-new series getting underway.
It will be available to watch on BBC One and iPlayer this September.
Eager viewers can add the show to their watchlist on BBC iPlayer now.
Who would you like to see join the line-up for Strictly this year? Tell us in the comments below.
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