Get ready for a sparkling season of Strictly Come Dancing as the 2026 lineup has been unveiled, bringing a mix of familiar faces and fresh talent to the dancefloor. This year's edition promises to be an exciting one, with some beloved pros returning and a few new names set to make their mark. Let's dive into the details and explore what this year's Strictly has in store for us!
The Returning Pros: Fan Favorites Reunite
Strictly Come Dancing has always been about celebrating the art of dance and creating memorable partnerships. This year, the show welcomes back some fan-favorite professionals who have left their mark on the competition. Among them are Dianne Buswell, Amy Dowden, and Aljaž Škorjanec, whose presence will undoubtedly delight viewers.
Dianne, an Australian Open champion, has become a Strictly staple since joining in 2017. Her memorable partnerships, including with Joe Sugg and Tyler West, have left a lasting impression. Amy Dowden, a four-time British national finalist, brings her precision and grace to the dancefloor, having reached the final with Karim Zeroual in 2019. Aljaž, a 19-time Slovenian champion, made history by lifting the Glitterball trophy with Abbey Clancy in his debut series. His return is sure to bring a touch of elegance and charm.
New Talent, New Stories:
While some pros are returning, the show also promises to introduce a batch of "fresh top talent" to shake things up. The identities of these new professionals will be revealed closer to the show's autumn return, leaving us with a sense of anticipation and curiosity. Who will they be? What unique styles and personalities will they bring to the ballroom?
A Shake-Up and a New Beginning:
The 2026 lineup announcement follows a significant shake-up earlier this year, with several professionals exiting the series. Luba Mushtuk, Nadiya Bychkova, Karen Hauer, Gorka Marquez, and Michelle Tsiakkas have all moved on, creating a new dynamic for the show. This change allows for a fresh start and the opportunity to showcase the diverse talent within the dance community.
Exploring the Pros' Journeys:
Each professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing has their own unique story and journey. Take, for example, Aljaž Škorjanec, who, after a two-year hiatus, made an impressive return in 2024, reaching the final with Tasha Ghouri. His resilience and dedication are inspiring. Amy Dowden, a British national champion, has used her platform to raise awareness for inflammatory bowel conditions, earning an MBE in 2025. Dianne Buswell, with her Australian charm, has not only won the Glitterball trophy but also received a BAFTA Television Award for a memorable waltz with Chris McCausland.
A Global Perspective:
What makes Strictly Come Dancing so captivating is its ability to bring together dancers from diverse backgrounds and cultures. This year's lineup includes professionals from Slovenia, South Africa, Poland, Australia, China, and beyond. Their unique styles and experiences will undoubtedly enrich the show and offer viewers a global perspective on the art of dance.
The Unchanged Judging Panel:
While the pros and celebrities may change, the judging panel remains a constant. Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Head Judge Shirley Ballas will return to deliver their expert critiques and scores. Their presence adds a layer of consistency and expertise to the show, ensuring that the dance performances are evaluated fairly and with a critical eye.
Looking Ahead:
As we eagerly await the official release date, which is expected to be in mid-to-late September, the excitement for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 continues to build. The BBC will also announce new hosts to replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, adding another layer of intrigue to the upcoming season. With a mix of returning favorites and new talent, this year's Strictly promises to be a thrilling journey filled with dazzling performances, unexpected partnerships, and, of course, the iconic Glitterball trophy.
So, mark your calendars, dust off your dancing shoes, and get ready to be entertained! Strictly Come Dancing 2026 is almost here, and it's shaping up to be a season to remember.
