Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show’s 20th series

Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series

As I delve into the captivating world of these extraordinary individuals, I am struck by the sheer diversity and resilience they embody. Tom Dean, the Olympic gold-medalist swimmer, has already graced our screens with his presence on reality shows like I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! and Celebrity Masterchef. Now, it seems he is ready to take on the dance floor, showcasing yet another facet of his talent. His life journey thus far is a testament to the power of determination and the pursuit of excellence.


As a die-hard fan, I couldn’t contain my excitement as I caught glimpses of the celebrities gracing Strictly Come Dancing’s stage for their initial rehearsals on Thursday! The anticipation builds as more stars are announced for the 20th series, leaving me eager to discover who will be stepping onto the dance floor next.

At a studio in London, Love Island’s Tasha Ghouri, comedian Chris McCausland, and actors Shayne Ward and Sarah Hadland were all welcomed cheerfully by professional dancers.

Radiating joy, Shayne warmly embraced a teammate, while the professional dancers too, turned up to greet the fresh batch of celebrity participants.

A team was observed removing a vehicle filled with shimmering outfits, preparing them for the initial celebrity fitting sessions.

Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series

Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series

Shayne and Sarah from “Corrie” and “Miranda” hurried away from the ITV Lorraine studio towards their rehearsals, following their reveal as the newest celebrities joining the lineup prematurely.

Following their reveal on the ITV Lorraine show, Shayne from Corrie and Sarah from Miranda hurriedly made their way to rehearsals, joining the list of upcoming celebrities.

On Thursday morning, it was officially announced on the show Lorraine (on ITV) who the following two stars will be participating in Strictly Come Dancing 2024.

Sarah, age 53, gained recognition for her role as Stevie, Miranda’s sidekick, in the renowned BBC sitcom. Additionally, she was part of the original cast of the widely acclaimed and multi-award-winning series, Horrible Histories.

Apart from being a popular comedian, this individual has also acted in shows like Waterloo Road, That Mitchell and Webb Look, and the 2008 James Bond film titled Quantum of Solace.

As a fangirl bursting with excitement, I can hardly contain my joy – I’ve been selected to join Strictly Come Dancing! Being part of this legendary show in its 20th year is beyond amazing. I’m all geared up for the sparkle, sequins, and sensational dance moves, hoping to make all the viewers at home beam with pride!

Shayne, aged 39, rose to prominence in 2005 after winning the second season of The X Factor. He is now set to appear alongside former X Factor contestant and member of JLS, JB Gill, on Strictly.

While his initial two albums topped the charts at positions one and two, his third album was met with a tepid response and underperformed in terms of sales.

Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series

Transitioning into the realm of acting, the celebrity became part of the Coronation Street ensemble, portraying Aidan Connor from 2015 to 2018, ten years following his victory on the singing contest.

Shayne made his last appearance as Aidan Connor on 7 May 2018. 

Previously, the star had danced on ice, having participated in Dancing on Ice competition in 2013.

More recently, he starred in a Channel 5 drama titled “The Good Ship Murder,” featuring his previous Coronation Street colleague Catherine.

“Shayne expressed his excitement to witness the glitz and enchantment of Strictly Come Dancing up close. Although he’s accustomed to live television, performing Latin and Ballroom dances for millions is a unique challenge. As for my dancing skills, there are no guarantees, but I promise to put in my best effort!”

Strictly Come Dancing fans have furiously slammed this year’s lineup as ‘the worst to ever exist’.

Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series

Love Island alum Tasha Ghouri and reality TV personality Pete Wicks are among the new cast members for this season, alongside comedian Chris McCausland, JLS vocalist JB Gill, 80s musician Toyah Wilcox, medical professional Dr Punam Krishnan from Morning Live, and singer Wynne Evans.

Although the complete list of performers for this year hasn’t been revealed yet, a significant number of fans have expressed their dissatisfaction, claiming they are unfamiliar with more than half of the participating artists.

Right now, there’s a lot of discussion surrounding the BBC dance show due to allegations that the professional dancers have been using aggressive or disrespectful tactics when instructing the celebrities. Various instances of bullying and harsh treatment have reportedly come to light.

Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series

As a seasoned Strictly Come Dancing fan with years of watching under my belt, I must confess that this year’s lineup leaves me feeling quite underwhelmed. With all due respect, I simply cannot bear the thought of enduring ten weeks alongside Sam Quek and Pete Wicks. It’s not that they aren’t lovely people; it’s just that their dancing skills don’t quite match my expectations for this esteemed competition. I fear this may be the weakest lineup Strictly has ever seen, and I can hardly wait for the final curtain call.

Could it be considered less than friendly to consider that many well-known individuals might not be participating in Strictly this season, given that the roster seems more like a secondary cast compared to previous years?

As a devoted fan, I must admit that the current lineup for Strictly feels like it’s undergoing some unexpected changes at the eleventh hour, with several high-profile celebrities stepping down due to recent allegations.

Introduced on Wednesday, new contestant Pete Wicks has a close friendship with Zara McDermott, a former cast member from this year’s Strictly series.

Pete found himself included in the Strictly cast, surprising many, as rumors swirled about Zara allegedly dancing on the show while dealing with a broken leg sustained during training. She reportedly relied on painkillers to endure grueling ten-hour rehearsals.

Following the confession by professional dancer Graziano Di Prima, age 30, about kicking Zara during rehearsals, he was subsequently dismissed from the BBC series. This recent disclosure has been made public.

Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series

The alleged abuse was reportedly captured on video, with Zara finding the footage she shared particularly upsetting.

According to a source, TopMob learned that Zara is overjoyed about Pete getting the job on Strictly. Her time on the show was unique and personal to her – she wishes no one else has to endure the same experience in the future.

She is confident that Pete will enjoy himself immensely and might even win over the judges, given his diligence and kind nature. He flourishes particularly well in challenging situations and under pressure. The setting may be demanding, but it suits him perfectly.

Zara prefers not to let any past events influence her Strictly experience, and she supports Pete wholeheartedly, despite the fact that this situation might bring up personal feelings.

As an over-the-moon fan, I’ve been eagerly awaiting Strictly’s big reveal of their 20th series lineup all week long. But Tuesday night, it seems the cat’s out of the bag—the full celebrity cast has apparently been leaked!

Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series

Apart from the previously announced cast members, it’s said that Jamie Borthwick, known for his role as Jay Brown on EastEnders, allegedly signed up for the roster following his exceptional performance in the Christmas special episode last year, which earned him the top score.

According to reports, DIY SOS’s Nick Knowles, who is 61 years old, is expected to show off his dance moves and make an appearance in a popular TV series this year.

After months of talks with bosses, sources claim he is ‘willing to give anything a crack’. 

A source told The Sun: ‘Nick has always loved Strictly and he is so excited.

In the meantime, swimmer Tom Dean appeared embarrassed when asked about his upcoming stint on Strictly Come Dancing, having accidentally revealed his participation in the upcoming season.

Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series

On Tuesday, the 24-year-old Olympic gold medalist in swimming, who recently led his team to victory in the freestyle relay at the Summer Games, was a guest on Capital Breakfast.

Overflowing with enthusiasm following Team GB’s victory, Tom unintentionally revealed that he would be part of the forthcoming BBC dance program.

Yet, he was notably less forthcoming regarding the announcement during his radio interview with Jordan North, Chris Stark, and Sian Welby.

56-year-old former Arsenal star Paul Merson has decided to trade his soccer abilities for the dance floor following his signing with Strictly Come Dancing.

According to reports, the Sky Sports analyst is said to be part of the upcoming series following his recovery from struggles with alcoholism, substance abuse, and compulsive gambling.

According to the Sun, it’s possible that Sam Quek, who gained popularity as a member of Team GB’s hockey squad, could be a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing.

Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series
Strictly celebs are warmly greeted by the pro dancers and crew as they arrive for first rehearsals whilst scandal continues to overshadow BBC show's 20th series

Previously, the Olympic medal winner has been a contestant on “I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” (in the year 2016) and “Celebrity Masterchef” (in 2020).

It’s whispered that Montell Douglas, who played Gladiators, is also being talked about. At 37 years old, she made history by becoming the first British female athlete to participate in both summer and winter Olympic competitions.

As a former Team GB sprinter and Olympic bobsledder, I can attest to the rigors and exhilaration of competing at the highest level of sports. Breaking the British women’s record for the fastest 100m sprint in just 11.05 seconds was an incredible achievement that will always be a highlight of my career. The dedication, discipline, and sheer determination required to excel in sports is something that stays with you long after you hang up your spikes or helmet. My experiences as an athlete have taught me valuable lessons about resilience, teamwork, and the importance of setting and achieving goals. I am proud to have represented my country and to have left a mark on the sporting world.

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2024-08-08 16:21

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