Strictly Come Dancing 2025 is on the way, when once again we will be treated to unforgettable group routines and themed weeks as the sparkiest show on TV returns. We now also know which famous faces will be joining the new series.
Strictly Come Dancing 2024 saw Chris McCausland join the Strictly Come Dancing winners list after lifting the glitterball trophy with dance partner Dianne Buswell and this year we will have two new professional dancers joining the show when it returns in September.
Sadly, we have already had our first celebrity withdraw from the show, with Game of Thrones star Kristian Nairn leaving due to 'unforeseen medical reasons'. His replacement has been announced as former Emmerdale star Lewis Cope. You can read more on this below.
Here is everything we know about Strictly Come Dancing 2025...
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 release date
It is too early to know an exact start date for the new season, but it has been announced that Strictly Come Dancing 2025 will return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer in September 2025.
Last year, the launch show aired on Saturday, September 14, and it is thought that it will be around the same time of year for the new series.
As soon as we get more information on this, we will update this guide.
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 celebrity line up
The official line up has been announced and the 15 celebrities taking part this year are...
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey
Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, aka Nitro, was the first celebrity to be announced for the new series.
Harry is an Olympian, multi-gold medal-winning Team GB sprinter, and star of Gladiators. As a sprinter, he has competed at the highest level in the UK since his youth, becoming the first athlete to win gold medals at both 100 and 200 metres at the World Youth Championships, and winning the 2005 BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year award aged 17.
Harry is no stranger to the dancefloor after taking part in the Strictly Come Dancing 2024 Christmas Special where he was partnered with Nancy Xu. On joining Strictly Come Dancing, Harry says: “After the Christmas Special, it was so nice I just had to do it twice! I’m so excited to be part of the Strictly family this series and I’m ready to give it all I’ve got. I’ll be bringing tons of energy to light up the dance floor. Let’s hope I’m as quick picking up the routines as I am on the track!”
Dani Dyer
Dani Dyer is a TV personality, broadcaster, author and mother of three. Born in Canning Town, Dani has fronted documentaries such as Is This Anxiety?, has teamed up with her father Danny for podcast Live and Let Dyers and travelogue series Absolutely Dyer: Danny and Dani Do Italy, and has made guest appearances in EastEnders and Celebrity Gogglebox. Dani won Love Island in 2018 and has since amassed over three million social media followers. She is also a published author with her debut book What Would Dani Do? reaching the Sunday Times Bestsellers list. Dani married West Ham footballer Jarrod Bowen in May this year.
Speaking of joining the show, Dani said: "Getting the opportunity to be on Strictly is the second most amazing thing I’ve done this year! I feel very very blessed and cannot wait to get my dancing shoes on."
Alex Kingston
Alex Kingston has been a star of stage and screen for more than four decades, gaining international fame as Dr Elizabeth Corday in the global hit TV drama ER for eight years, winning a SAG award in the process. She is known to millions of Doctor Who fans as the iconic River Song, aka The Doctor’s Wife, a role she has played opposite three Doctors on screen and continues in audio adventure and novel form.
Other television work includes a BAFTA-nominated performance as Moll Flanders, plus roles in Douglas Is Cancelled, Treason, Gilmore Girls, Boudica, Lost in Austen, Dodger, A Discovery of Witches, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, and Arrow.
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink is a former professional footballer and football manager best known for his prolific goal-scoring career in the Premier League and across Europe. A Dutch international, Jimmy played for clubs including Leeds United, Atlético Madrid and Chelsea, earning a reputation for his power, pace, and precision. Since retiring, Jimmy has become a familiar face in football punditry for major UK sports networks, managed clubs like Burton Albion and Northampton Town and served as an assistant coach for the England national team.
Speaking of joining the show, Jimmy said: "Swapping the pitch for the ballroom is certainly not something I’ve done before, but I’m looking forward to tackling a fun challenge! Bring on a new type of footwork, with hopefully no own goals!"
Balvinder Sopal
Balvinder is an actor whose career spans theatre, radio, film and television. She is most known for playing the infamous Suki Kaur Panesar (now Unwin) on EastEnders since 2019. As Suki she has been at the heart of some of EastEnders’ most gripping and acclaimed storylines, from being part of ‘The Six’ to her on-off affair with Eve Unwin.
On joining Strictly Come Dancing, Balvinder Sopal says: “Being on Strictly is a dream that I held on to, with no proof that it would ever happen. Working on EastEnders and being a part of Strictly Come Dancing is the stuff that dreams are made of. I’m far too excited to put into words how I feel but I’m incredibly excited at the prospect of dancing across the ballroom!”
George Clarke
George Clarke, also known as George Clarkey, is a British YouTuber, podcaster and social media star. George began experimenting with video content as a teenager, quickly discovering the power of humour and honesty to connect with people around the world. Since then he has built a thriving digital career with millions of followers across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, drawn to his authenticity and sharp comedic voice.
Speaking of joining Strictly, George said: "I never thought I’d say this… but I’m doing Strictly! Honestly, I’ve got no idea what I’m doing but I’m excited to get stuck in... and potentially fall over a fair bit!"
La Voix
La Voix is a performer, presenter and singer who competed in the 2024 series of the BBC hit RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.
La Voix is no stranger to national television, starring in shows like ITV's Queens For The Night and Paramount’s Queen Of The Universe, her journey over the years has been nothing short of iconic.
Speaking of being on the show, La Voix said: "I've performed for royalty, RuPaul and Simon Cowell, but nothing fills me with more excitement (and quite a bit of terror) than the thought of dancing in front of millions on live Saturday night TV. Strictly is a national institution and I can't wait to get started. All that's left to say is: good luck to my partner! Here's hoping they can help me go from La Voix into La Danse."
Chris Robshaw
Chris Robshaw is a former England rugby union player and captain. He first joined his childhood club, Harlequins RFC, straight out of school and became captain at 23 years old. He earned 66 caps for England and captained the national team 43 times, leading them to a Six Nations Grand Slam victory in 2016.
Chris is nervous about joining the show... "This is about as far out of my comfort zone as it gets! I’m hoping to take my dad dancing to a whole new level, and my mum can’t wait to drag me along to her Zumba class. Let’s see if a rugby sidestep works in the Cha Cha Cha!"
Ellie Goldstein
Ellie is a model, actor and influencer, who in 2023 made history as the first model with Down syndrome to grace the cover of British Vogue. Her modelling career has also seen Ellie appear on the covers of Glamour, Elle, Mission Mag and Euphoria magazines, and she has featured in huge campaigns for brands such as Gucci Beauty and Adidas. Two years ago Ellie partnered with Mattel to launch the first ever Barbie with Down syndrome, and more recently her acting has taken centre stage, with a guest lead role in CBBC’s Mallory Towers.
On joining Strictly Come Dancing, Ellie Goldstein says: “I’m absolutely over the moon to be joining the cast and pros of Strictly Come Dancing this year. It’s a show I’ve loved watching for so long, and the chance to now be part of it feels like a dream. I know it’s going to be challenging, but I’m ready to do it with the glitter and glamour and make some magic on that dancefloor. Let the Strictly journey begin!”
Thomas Skinner
Thomas Skinner first hit TV screens on The Apprentice in 2019, becoming a breakout star of his series. Since leaving the boardroom, Thomas has appeared on TV shows including 8 Out of 10 Cats, The Wheel, Michael McIntyre’s Big Show, Good Morning Britain and Faking It.
On joining Strictly Come Dancing, Thomas Skinner says: “I’m beyond excited to be joining Strictly Come Dancing. I’ve tackled the boardroom and some big breakfasts in my time but stepping onto the dance floor under that glitter ball is next level stuff! I’ve never danced in my life (other than at weddings) but I’m ready to graft and of course have a laugh. Bring on the sequins, sambas and most importantly, the BOSH to the ballroom!”
Stefan Dennis
Stefan is an actor best known for playing the legendary role of Paul Robinson in Neighbours, the longest-running drama series in Australian television history. He created the role for the first episode in 1985 and appeared in over 6,000 episodes during the 40 years that the show was on air. Prior to joining Neighbours, Stefan worked extensively on Australian television with roles on numerous shows such as Prisoner, The Henderson Kids, The Sullivans, Young Doctors , and Sons and Daughters, to name a few.
On joining Strictly, Stefan says: “This is an opportunity for me to once again learn to step out of my comfort zone in the world of television. Looking forward to the sparkle and reaching for the sky.”
Vicky Pattison
Vicky Pattison is a TV presenter, author, podcast and radio host who won the nation’s heart after being crowned Queen of the Jungle on I'm A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! in 2015. Vicky has also been a Celebrity MasterChef finalist, appeared on Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, and featured in BBC’s Sport Relief: All Star Games and was seen raising money in BBC’s Arctic Challenge for Comic Relief last year.
On joining Strictly, Vicky says: "I’m absolutely buzzing to be part of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing lineup... but I'd be lying if I said I wasn’t terrified. I am a not a natural dancer! However, it’s such an amazing opportunity for me to step out of my comfort zone and to challenge myself in a completely new way and I just really hope I don't make too much of a fool of myself!"
Ross King
Ross can be seen daily on ITV’s Good Morning Britain and Lorraine as their Los Angeles Correspondent. He is a four-time News Emmy winner who has hosted more than 30 television series since his first radio broadcast at 15 and television debut at 17.
On joining Strictly Come Dancing, Ross says: “From the bright lights of Hollywood to the glittering ballroom - it’s a dream come true to be part of such an iconic show. I can’t wait to learn from the best, meet my fellow contestants, and, most importantly… try not to step on too many toes! Let’s give this the best that I can! As my mum always said: “You’ll never know till you give it a go!”
Karen Carney
Karen Carney is a former footballer who played for Chelsea, Arsenal, Birmingham City and England, and is now the lead female pundit for both men's and women's football, across TNT and ITV. With 144 caps, Karen is England’s third most-capped player, competing at four World Cups, four European Championships and the London Olympics before retiring in 2019.
On joining Strictly, Karen says: “It really is a dream come true to be a part of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing line up. I’m such a huge fan of the show and I can’t believe I’m finally getting the chance to take part. I’m so excited to meet everyone and get dancing!"
Lewis Cope
Lewis is best known for his role in ITV’s Emmerdale as Nicky Milligan, who, in an explosive storyline, was revealed to be a member of the series’ iconic Tate and Dingle families. Lewis was nominated for the Rising Star Award at the 2023 National Television Awards for the role. Away from the Dales, Lewis’ other television work includes roles in Vera, Mrs Sidhu Investigates, and Hetty Feather and he previously worked with David Beckham on an advertising campaign.
On joining Strictly, Lewis says: "I'm so excited to be swapping the Dales for the dance floor and joining this year's Strictly Come Dancing. I've always been a fan of the show and cannot wait to get started!”
Kristian Nairn - withdrawn
Kristian was the fifteenth and final celebrity joining Strictly and is an internationally renowned actor, DJ and creative force who has spent over two decades at the forefront of music and entertainment. Kristian is best known for his unforgettable portrayal of Hodor in HBO’s global phenomenon Game of Thrones, a role that earned him a devoted international following and created one of the most iconic and emotional moments in recent TV history.
Sadly, it was announced on Thursday, August 21 that Kristian has had to pull out of the series due to 'unforseen medical reasons'. Speaking of his early departure from the show, he said: “With a heavy heart, I have to step back from this season of Strictly Come Dancing due to unexpected medical reasons. I was truly looking forward to the journey, and I’m deeply sorry to disappoint anyone who was looking forward to seeing me on the dance floor. Thank you all for your support, and I will be back on my feet very soon, in every sense. Love to all, Kristian."
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 professional dancers
This year's Professional Dancers are Dianne Buswell, Nadiya Bychkova, Amy Dowden, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, Jowita Przystal, Johannes Radebe, Aljaž Škorjanec, Kai Widdrington, Nancy Xu, Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley, Michelle Tsiakkas and Vito Coppola.
There will also be two brand new professional dancers, Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon.
American-born Alexis won the US dance series So You Think You Can Dance in 2022. She's also appeared on the US version of Strictly, Dancing With The Stars.
Australian-born Julian has appeared as a Professional Dancer on three seasons of Australia’s Dancing With The Stars, and also competed on So You Think You Can Dance in Australia.
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 theme weeks
As always there will be some special themed weeks to look forward to as well as unforgettable group routines and of course the much-anticipated annual trip to the iconic and much-loved Tower Ballroom in Blackpool.
As soon as we know more about this year's theme weeks we will add the information to this guide.
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 judges
Of course, the multi-award-winning competition is not complete without its fabulous judges.
It was revealed via the BBC Strictly Come Dancing Instagram account that Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Head Judge Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke will all be returning to the judging panel.
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 hosts
Hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have been co-presenting the series since 2010 and are both back for another year.
Is there a trailer for Strictly Come Dancing 2025?
Not yet, but as soon as one is released by the BBC we will add it to this guide.
Who won Strictly Come Dancing 2024?
Chris McCausland and his partner Dianne Buswell lifted the glitterball trophy in Strictly Come Dancing 2024 after beating his fellow finalists, JLS singer JB Gill, actress Sarah Hadland and former Love Islander Tasha Ghouri - an impressive achievement considering Chris was registered blind after losing his sight to retinitis pigmentosa in his 20s.
Following his win an emotional Chris, who had been the viewers' favourite throughout the series, told the BBC: "This has been about changing everybody else's attitudes to what is possible and raising people's expectations because that's where the difference is."
Behind the scenes and more on Strictly Come Dancing 2025
Strictly Come Dancing is a BBC Studios Entertainment production for BBC One and BBC iPlayer and was commissioned by Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment at the BBC. The Executive Producer is Sarah James, the Series Editors are Nicola Fitzgerald and Jack Gledhill. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Jo Wallace.
More details regarding the upcoming series, including the Celebrity contestants taking part, will be announced in due course as Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer in Autumn 2025.
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