Lacey Turner Confirmed as First Contestant for Strictly Come Dancing 2026
The BBC has confirmed that EastEnders actress Lacey Turner will be the first celebrity contestant announced for the 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing, which will air in autumn. Turner, known for playing Stacey Slater since 2004, expressed excitement about competing on the show she has long admired. The announcement comes unusually early compared to previous years, with the BBC planning to reveal further contestants throughout the summer.
The BBC has officially announced that Lacey Turner, best known for her role as Stacey Slater on EastEnders, will compete on the 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing. Turner, who joined EastEnders in 2004 and has won multiple awards for the role, expressed enthusiasm about participating in the show, stating she is a longtime fan. The new series will feature a refreshed presenting team with Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe replacing departing presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The judging panel will remain largely unchanged, with Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke returning. The BBC's decision to announce the first contestant significantly earlier than usual—typically done in August rather than June—marks a departure from standard practice, though the corporation did not provide an explanation for the change.
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Lacey Turner confirmed as first Strictly contestant
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