The 2026 season of the dance competition returns in September, featuring a new presenting trio of Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe, and Josh Widdicombe. The judging panel remains unchanged, with Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Shirley Ballas delivering scores and commentary. Several professional dancers have departed, including Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas, and Gorka Márquez, while Neil Jones and Nancy Xu will compete without assigned partners.
Will Best, known for his time on a popular reality series, has confirmed his participation. He expressed excitement about stepping onto the dance floor, describing the experience as both thrilling and intimidating. Best, who also hosts a breakfast radio show, said he is ready to embrace the challenge of ballroom dancing.
Cach Mercer, the 2025 winner of a reality dating show, brings a strong dance background and a large social media following to the lineup. The contestant highlighted his lifelong passion for dance and anticipation of learning new styles such as the foxtrot.
World‑renowned hair stylist Chris Appleton was announced as the first celebrity to join the cast. Appleton, who has styled high‑profile artists, described the opportunity as a chance to explore a new creative arena and expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming training.
Lacey Turner, a veteran soap opera actress, has also been selected for the competition. Turner, who has earned multiple awards for her long‑running role, expressed excitement about learning to dance and engaging with a new audience on the show.
Dani Dyer, who previously withdrew from the 2025 season due to injury, will return with hopes of completing the full competition. The 29‑year‑old shared her eagerness to regain her place on the dance floor and to showcase her progress after a short hiatus.
Australian singer and actress Delta Goodrem has joined the roster, noting that the ballroom presents a stage she has yet to explore. Goodrem, who has performed on various platforms, welcomed the chance to add dancing to her repertoire.
Additional rumors suggest that former talent show contestant Jake Quickenden and Paralympic cyclist Dame Sarah Storey may also join the forthcoming season. Further details about the cast are expected to be released over the summer.
The new series will air on the network and its streaming service in September, generating significant anticipation among viewers and fans of the show.
