UMVA has learned that world‑renowned hairstylist Chris Appleton is swapping scissors for sequins as the newest contestant on this year’s Strictly Come Dancing.
The 43‑year‑old British‑born “Hair Star,” who has crafted iconic looks for megastars from Kim Kardashian to Ariana Grande, announced his excitement in a heartfelt video, saying he’s been a lifelong fan of the show and can’t wait to feel the rush of the dance floor.
Appleton praised his close friend Kim Kardashian, calling her “an amazing mother and a brilliant businesswoman,” and hinted that her presence—or even that of her mother‑in‑law Kris Jenner—in the studio audience could be “an absolute certainty.”
Fans are already buzzing with the possibility of a Kardashian‑Jenner cameo, imagining the headline‑making moment of Kim posting about the show from the front row.
Joining Appleton on the ballroom battlefield will be EastEnders legend Lacey Turner, returning fan favourite Dani Dyer, and Australian Eurovision star Delta Goodrem, with more celebrity names expected to surface as the autumn launch approaches.
The show itself is entering a fresh chapter, featuring a new presenting lineup of Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis and professional dancer Johannes Radebe, while the judging panel remains intact.
Behind the scenes, a major reshuffle of the professional dance troupe is underway, with several veterans exiting and fresh talent set to debut in the coming months.
Speculation swirls around potential additions such as The One Show’s Roman Kemp, Paralympic champion Dame Sarah Storey, and former reality stars Jeff Brazier, Josie Gibson and Jake Quickenden.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Appleton’s decision to join Strictly marks his first foray onto a televised dance floor, a bold leap that underscores his belief that “the best things happen when you take a chance and try something new.”
