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Neighbours legend ‘signs up for new series of Strictly Come Dancing’ just days after wrapping up filming for final episode of long-running soap

BBG News

Longtime neighbor Stefan Dennis is said to have agreed to participate in the upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing.

The 66-year-old actor, who portrayed the womanizing and villainous character Paul Robinson in an Australian soap opera for four decades, concluded filming for its last episode on a Friday.

Now that he’s leaving Ramsay Street, it’s said he’ll be displaying his dancing skills on the dance floor.

According to a source, Stefan is expected to be popular among Strictly Come Dancing viewers, and BBC executives are optimistic that his appearance will boost ratings.

He openly expresses his desire to participate on Strictly Come Dancing, giving his utmost effort during the training process.

TopMob has contacted representatives for Strictly Come Dancing and Stefan for comment. 

On Friday, Stefan was accompanied by his co-actors during a poignant farewell day on set at Nunawading Studios in Australia, while they captured the final scenes of the soap opera.

Since its premiere in 1985, he’s been a regular cast member on “Neighbours”. After departing in 1992, he came back to the show in 2004.

Acknowledging the bar of soap that catapulted him into stardom, he enthusiastically shares that he would never have crossed paths with incredible individuals nor lived through extraordinary moments without it.

Stefan mused: “I wouldn’t have imagined that just one show could provide the most thrilling experiences of my entire career, lasting over four decades.

The influence of neighbors is substantial and has given rise to renowned figures such as Kylie Minogue and Margot Robbie, thus earning an unexpected level of cultural prominence in Great Britain.

The last episode will be broadcast on December 11, following three previous cancellations that fans have seen unfold.

Two years past, audiences eagerly anticipated what had been called the ‘final episode,’ but Amazon intervened with a saving grace instead.

After news broke this week about Vicky Pattison being offered a place on this year’s series, it is now confirmed that Stefan has signed up for Strictly as well.

Last year, the reality TV personality, aged 37, reportedly piqued the interest of producers as she enthusiastically supported her friend Pete Wicks in the audience during a past season. Now, show executives are eager to move her into the spotlight.

According to a source, Vicky found herself captivated by Pete’s performances in the show and was deeply impressed by the precision and dedication behind each act.

As a die-hard admirer, I can confidently say that she radiates an infectious energy that’s bound to win over the audience. While Vicky has made a name for herself in the realm of reality TV, she’s eager to step out of her comfort zone and showcase her moves on the dance floor.

Previously, discussions were underway between the BBC series and Paul C. Brunson about his potential appearance. The production team felt confident that he wouldn’t succumb to the famous ‘curse’ associated with the show.

For more than a decade, the media has frequently referred to the ‘Strictly Curse,’ a term that suggests participating in the show may lead to problems in contestants’ romantic partnerships.

Currently, it seems insiders believe the producers have a strong interest in recruiting Paul, a well-known dating advisor, who has made appearances on popular Channel 4 series such as Married At First Sight UK and Celebs Go Dating.

The well-known American actor residing in London is viewed as a reliable choice – and perhaps exactly the fresh perspective that Strictly Come Dancing might benefit from after the turbulent last two seasons.

According to a source, Paul could make a great addition to Strictly Come Dancing since he is neat, intelligent, and free of any controversy.

They are currently negotiating, but he has had several meetings with producers. Everyone is optimistic that he will agree and excited about moving forward with the project.

It has been speculated that the actor from Gladiators, Nitro, might be participating in this year’s show, as he is said to have made a positive impact on the BBC producers during the Christmas special.

Last year, a remarkable individual aged 36 participated in the festive event and was partnered with the professional dancer, Nancy Xu.

Now, it appears that Harry Aikines Aryeetey, known as Nitro, has consented to be a part of the upcoming season starting this fall.

A show insider told The Sun how the ex-Olympian had been on bosses’ wish list for some time now.

Managers have been eagerly trying to include Nitro in the show for some time now. They discussed it last year, but unfortunately, their schedules didn’t align with his work commitments.

At Christmas, he became quite popular by dancing around in tight spandex and flexing his muscular arms. Impressed by his dance moves as well, the producers took notice.

It’s clear that the popularity of The Gladiators is on the rise, especially among children. Consequently, it can be expected that they’ll also appeal to younger audiences.

Earlier, Nitro implied involvement in the primary series as he disclosed his participation in the Christmas special, albeit injured.

He shared with The Mirror, “I have an injury to some extent, and it has been quite challenging. I’m not in top form right now. I hope they consider this situation.

However, my main purpose is simply to have fun. I can certainly dance and be merry, and for me, that’s what truly matters.

While I believe we will excel and enjoy ourselves, I’d prefer to give myself my best shot in the main series by competing again at a later time.

‘I really want to reach a point where I can fully express my abilities. I’m passionate about this, and if the chance presents itself, it feels like stepping into an arena to learn something fresh. If the opportunity arises, I’d seize it eagerly – in fact, by that time, I might even be able to jump!’

Earlier this year Strictly Come Dancing confirmed the professional lineup for 2025.

Dianne Buswell, who won the glitter ball with Chris McCausland back in December, is set to return to the dance floor alongside Nadiya Bychkova, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk and Jowita Przystal this coming September.

For 2025, Amy Dowden, who had to withdraw from last year’s show due to a foot injury, along with Carlos Gu and Kai Widdrington, who danced without a celebrity partner in the previous season, are set to return on Strictly Come Dancing.

Contrary to speculation about his potential comeback following his absence from last year’s competition, Giovanni Pernice won’t be returning to the dance floor in this upcoming season.

As Sarah James, Executive Producer at BBC Studios, I can’t contain my anticipation for the upcoming series. Not only are we thrilled to have our exceptional returning Pros back, but we’re equally eager to introduce two fresh Professional Dancers to the roster. These new additions promise to contribute to another awe-inspiring season filled with mesmerizing dance routines and much more for viewers in late 2025.

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2025-07-13 11:07

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