Lacey Turner, one of EastEnders’ best-known actresses, is the first celebrity confirmed for series 24 of Strictly Come Dancing. The BBC announced the news this Wednesday (10), marking the official start of the reveal of the dance competition’s cast.
Stacey Slater’s interpreter for more than 20 years was excited about the challenge. “I’m so excited to start dancing this year on Strictly Come Dancing! I’m a huge fan and I can’t believe I’m going to be taking part and not watching from home,” said the actress.
Turner, 38, took a temporary break from EastEnders last year. In the plot, her character Stacey traveled to Brazil with her children after a difficult period, including the loss of her husband Martin. The actress explained at the time that leaving gave the character the necessary breather.
With an established career on the BBC soap opera since 2004, Lacey has accumulated dozens of awards, including four National Television Awards and multiple British Soap Awards. His participation in Strictly represents a new phase after the soap opera hiatus.
New team of presenters and professionals
The 2026 season brings significant changes to the presentation. Emma Willis, comedian Josh Widdicombe and professional dancer Johannes Radebe take over, replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. It is the first time that the program has a trio of presenters.
The cast of professionals includes names such as Dianne Buswell, Amy Dowden, Katya Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Aljaž Škorjanec, Jowita Przystał, Nancy Xu, Kai Widdrington and others. More details about the format and special attractions are expected to be revealed throughout the summer.
What to expect from the new season
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and iPlayer in September. Lacey Turner’s early confirmation excites fans who are already celebrating the choice as a “strong start” for the reformulated edition. The actress arrives with the background of a dramatic actress and consolidated charisma among the British public.
Turner’s participation also highlights the balance between soap opera actors and the world of dance entertainment, something that the program has successfully explored throughout the editions.
