The ballroom is about to get a whole lot hotter! Strictly Come Dancing 2026 has officially unveiled its first celebrity contestant, and it’s none other than EastEnders favourite Lacey Turner, the beloved actress who has played Stacey Slater since 2004. Fans of the hit BBC show have been over the moon since the announcement, eagerly anticipating the moment Lacey swaps Albert Square for the glittering dance floor this autumn.
This year’s series promises to usher in a major new chapter for Strictly Come Dancing. Following the departure of iconic long-serving hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, viewers will be introduced to a fresh presenting trio: Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes “JoJo” Radebe. The new team has already captured the public’s imagination, with Emma confessing that stepping onto the Strictly ballroom floor feels “beyond comprehension” and a “huge honour,” while JoJo describes the opportunity as “returning to a show that has always stood for joy, heart, and togetherness.”
Josh, known for his unforgettable Charleston as a penguin during the 2024 Christmas Special, admitted he’s “giddy with excitement” and ready to dust off his dance shoes for a new adventure. Together, the trio promises to steer the show into an exciting new era while maintaining the magic, energy, and glamour that fans have adored for years.
With Lacey confirmed as the first celebrity stepping into the ballroom, speculation is already running wild over who will join her on the dance floor. Will there be more soap stars, sports personalities, or surprise guests? Fans will be watching closely, counting down the days until the autumn premiere.
Strictly Come Dancing 2026 is shaping up to be a season of fresh faces, dazzling performances, and unforgettable drama – and Lacey Turner is leading the charge. Get ready for sequins, sparkles, and show-stopping moves as the BBC’s most beloved dance show starts a thrilling new chapter.
