Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed ‘B-list’ lineup

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

As a fervent admirer of resilience and determination, I find myself deeply inspired by the lives of these individuals who have not only achieved great feats in their respective fields but are now venturing into uncharted territories.


As a lifestyle aficionado, I’m thrilled to share that the lineup for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2024 has expanded! The latest two stars were unveiled during an exciting reveal on ITV’s Lorraine this very Thursday morning.

Actors Sarah Hadland from the Miranda series and Shayne Ward, formerly a contestant on The X Factor, recently joined host Christine Lampard on the show to share some exciting news together.

Sarah, aged 53, gained recognition for playing Stevie, a supporting character alongside Miranda, in the popular BBC sitcom that garnered acclaim. Moreover, she was among the inaugural cast members of the critically-acclaimed and multi-award-winning series, Horrible Histories.

As a longtime fan of the entertainment industry, I have always been captivated by the diverse careers and talents that exist within it. One actor who has particularly caught my attention is the comedy star in question, whose versatility and range never cease to amaze me.

As a thrilled follower, I’m absolutely ecstatic to announce that I’ve become a part of Strictly! Being a part of this legendary show in its 20th year is an unparalleled honor. The anticipation for the dazzling glitz, captivating glamour, and shimmering glitter is overwhelming. My aim is to make everyone watching at home beam with pride!

39-year-old Shayne became widely recognized in 2005 after winning the second season of The X Factor. Now, he’s set to appear alongside former X Factor artist JB Gill (from JLS) on Strictly.

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

Despite his first and second albums reaching the top spots with number one and number two rankings, his third album was met with mixed reviews and underperformed in terms of sales.

Transitioning into the realm of acting, this notable figure became part of the Coronation Street ensemble, portraying Aidan Connor from 2015 to 2018. This move came a decade following his triumph in the singing contest.

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

Previously, the star had danced on ice competitions, since he participated in “Dancing On Ice” in 2013.

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

Shayne excitedly expressed, “I can’t wait to witness the glitter and enchantment that Strictly brings to life! Though I’m familiar with live television, performing Latin and Ballroom routines for millions is an entirely different experience. As for my dancing skills, there are no guarantees, but I promise to put forth my best effort!”

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

In this revised passage: Love Island alum Tasha Ghouri and TOWIE personality Pete Wicks are among the new cast members, along with comedian Chris McCausland, former JLS vocalist JB Gill, 80s musician Toyah Wilcox, television doctor Punam Krishnan from Morning Live, and singer Wynne Evans.

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup
Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

Although the full list of performers for this year hasn’t been revealed yet, there are quite a few fans who’ve expressed their displeasure, stating that they aren’t familiar with more than half of the artists participating.

In my commitment to staying informed about the world of entertainment, I’ve found myself amidst a whirlwind of discussions surrounding the BBC’s popular show. Recently, questions have arisen regarding the methods used by the professional dancers when instructing the celebrities. Alarmingly, allegations of bullying and abusive conduct have surfaced, casting a dark cloud over the show’s reputation.

Posts to X included: ‘That finalised Strictly lineup may be the worst to ever exist. I can’t sit through 10 weeks of Sam Quek and Pete Wicks. I can’t;’

Could it be a bit unfair to wonder if many well-known personalities decided to leave Strictly Come Dancing this season, given that the roster seems more like a second-tier group?

The current list for Strictly appears to be filled with last-minute substitutes, as some well-known figures had to withdraw due to the escalating allegations against them.

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup
Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

On Wednesday, it was announced on Kiss FM that Tasha Ghouri from Love Island and Pete Wicks, a cast member from TOWIE, had been confirmed as the sixth and seventh celebrities.

Tasha was the initial contestant from Love Island to participate while wearing a cochlear implant, a device she received at age five.

The model is passionate about raising awareness for the deaf community. 

In the year 2022, she made an appearance on ITV’s Love Island, leading to a significant fanbase that now exceeds 2.2 million people across various social media platforms.

Tasha has collaborated with Number 10 Downing Street, the Department of Education, and MED-AL on causes she cares deeply about. Aside from being an accomplished author, she is also the host of her own podcast titled ‘Superpowers with Tasha.’

On the KISS FM Breakfast Show on Wednesday, Tasha excitedly exclaimed, “Let me pinch myself! I still can’t wrap my head around the fact that I’ll be dancing on Strictly Come Dancing!”

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

“Ever since I was young, I’ve been captivated by this show – it’s a beloved tradition in our household – so being here is truly a dream realized. I can only imagine the incredible memories I’ll create, and I aspire to make everyone proud with my performances on the dance floor.”

Pete also called into Kiss FM to confirm his signing on Wednesday morning.

“I’m feeling both exhilarated and terrified, mostly terrified. I’ve been telling others, ‘Would you truly believe I would do this?’ and they respond, ‘Yes, that sounds just like you.'”

‘I’m going to have to switch my phone off now I’ll have a load of messages.’

He revealed that he had already spilled the news to his best friend Sam Thompson, who ‘cried.’  

“He wasn’t kidding; he exclaimed, jumped up and down, and wept. He’s been meticulously planning it for weeks, and he’s coming every Saturday. He’s even designing T-shirts for the occasion, and I consider him my most devoted fan. In many ways, he reminds me of Martha from Baby Reindeer.”

Pete has a close friendship with his buddy Sam’s partner, Zara McDermott, who was featured in the 2023 season of Strictly.

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

Pete made it onto the Strictly cast, surprising many, after allegations emerged that Zara danced on the program while nursing a ‘broken’ leg, sustained during practice, and relied on pain relievers to endure ten-hour rehearsal sessions.

Following the confession by professional dancer Graziano Di Prima, aged 30, that he had kicked his dance partner Zara, the BBC has decided to terminate his contract for the series. This admission came after their training sessions.

The behavior he allegedly exhibited as abusive is supported by videos, which Zara found extremely upsetting to view.

In my role as a devoted follower, I’m sharing some exclusive insights: “I am overjoyed that Pete has secured the Strictly Come Dancing opportunity. My personal journey on that show was unique, and I fervently hope that no other contestant endures the same experience.”

Based on my own experiences of mentoring numerous individuals over the years, I firmly believe that Pete is poised to have a truly remarkable time in this competition. His exceptional work ethic and genuine character are qualities that not only make him stand out but also endear him to others.

Zara prefers not to let any past events influence her Strictly experience, and she supports Pete wholeheartedly, even though it may feel personal.

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

Simultaneously, there’s a fresh controversy brewing around the team after the arrival of dancer Tasha, who is trained in her field.

In a recent disclosure, TopMob highlights that the ex-Love Island contestant, aged 25, boasts a dance background, having participated in significant dance competitions and appearing in various music videos. This raises speculation about whether she might gain an edge over her fellow celebrity contestants due to her unique skill set.

In the previous season, it was clouded with allegations suggesting that Layton Williams, a well-versed West End actor, held an advantage against his competitors, given his proficient dance skills.

Tasha’s involvement in the BBC One program might also stir up some debate, considering her long history in dance that dates back to when she was just five years old and her previous experience in competitions.

As a devoted fan and follower, I must express my intrigue about the recent news of Tasha joining our favorite show. Given her background as a professional dancer, successful reality star, and captivating model, one might argue that her skill set seems overqualified for the show. Yet, this only adds to the excitement and anticipation of her performance.

In my experience, I’ve never been a beginner when it comes to our craft, and even before we’ve started training, I find myself consistently outpacing my fellow actors.

Having spent years honing my dancing skills and competing at various levels, I can’t help but feel that it seems a bit unfair to have someone like her, who already has extensive dance background from Strictly Come Dancing, joining our competition. It’s particularly challenging for those of us who are newcomers to the world of dance.

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

Tasha made history as the initial Love Island contestant who wore a cochlear implant, a device she received at age five.

As a young girl at 12 months old, I was identified as hearing-impaired by my loving parents, who have always supported me through every step. Throughout my childhood, I spent numerous years undergoing dedicated speech therapy sessions to help me communicate more effectively.

Instead, she expresses that her disability serves as a unique strength for her. Prior to joining Love Island, she pledged to serve as an inspiration to the deaf community, much like her role model and previous Strictly Come Dancing champion, Rose Ayling-Ellis.

In June 2022, Tasha shared with TopMob: ‘Strictly and being a dancer, Rose serves as an incredible role model for me, and she powerfully demonstrated this. She not only represented me but also the deaf community, and it was simply amazing. Her message was beautiful.’

Throughout the entire week, Strictly is gradually revealing its celebrity lineup for the 20th series. However, on Tuesday evening, it seems that an unauthorized leak has disclosed the complete cast of celebrities.

Confirmed already are Chris McCausland, JB Gill, Toyah Wilcox, Punam Krishnan, Wynne Evans, and Tasha to participate.

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

Comedian Chris McCausland, who is blind, revealed himself as the first celebrity competitor for the 2024 series, making the announcement on This Morning on Monday.

2021 marked the debut of sign language in the dance competition, an innovation that was previously unfamiliar to audiences. Notably, this competition had Rose Ayling-Ellis, a deaf actress from EastEnders, as one of its participants. She triumphed and received the glitterball trophy alongside her partner Giovanni Pearce that year.

Actor Chris, who is a comedian and works for CBeebies, went blind at the age of 22 because of an inherited eye condition known as Retinitis Pigmentosa. (46 years old in current day)

Later on This Morning JLS star JB Gill was the second celeb confirmed. 

Initially, the band JLS gained recognition during the fifth season of The X Factor, where they ended up as second-place finalists alongside the lead singer.

Before parting ways in 2013, the band had already put out several albums. At that point in time, each of its members was estimated to be worth around six million pounds.

In a similar fashion as Aston Merrygold, who was voted off during the 10th week of the 2017 season, JB continues the path taken by his bandmate.

The star also has history with Strictly, winning the Christmas Special of the BBC One dancing show back in 2012, performing the Jive with Ola Jordan. 

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

 Punam Krishnan is an NHS GP and is one of the resident doctors on the BBC’s Morning Live.

Hailing from Scotland, I frequently delve into health-related subjects for both television programs and print media, and beyond that, I’ve even penned a children’s book.

Wynne Evans is widely recognized for his exceptional talent in opera. Over the span of his 25-year career, he’s achieved two number one classical music albums, served as a principal artist at many renowned opera houses globally, and has graced the stage more than 200 times at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

Wynne shared with Vernon Kay on BBC Radio 2 that he was astonished since it felt like secret missions, involving code names, auditions, and meeting famous personalities, which happens to be his favorite activity.

“I’m excited about the waltz, the traditional dance from the ballroom. I have a background in opera and I believe it will be a good fit for me.”

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

Toyah Willcox boasts a diverse career with thirteen hit singles in the top 40, twenty-five studio albums, authored two books, graced more than forty stage productions, starred in over twenty movies, and hosted numerous TV shows.

She fronted the eponymous band Toyah before branching out as a solo artist in the mid-1980s.  

In the year 2018, Toyah was bestowed with the Companionship of The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts by Paul McCartney, recognizing her exceptional achievements in music, theater, performance, and media.

Toyah appeared in the Radio 2 studio with Vernon and admitted she has been bursting to let the news slip, especially after performing at Glastonbury in June, saying the show will top off what has been an incredible year for her. 

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup
Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

According to reports, Jamie Borthwick, known for his role as Jay Brown on EastEnders, is said to have been added to the cast following his top-scoring performance in last year’s Christmas special.

61-year-old Nick Knowles, known for DIY SOS, is rumored to be showcasing his dance skills and making an appearance in a popular series during 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.

Simultaneously, swimmer Tom Dean appeared embarrassed when questioned about his upcoming stint on Strictly Come Dancing, following an unintentional reveal that he would participate in the upcoming season.

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup
Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

On Tuesday, the 24-year-old Olympic gold medalist in swimming made an appearance on Capital Breakfast, following his team’s victory in the freestyle relay at the recent Summer Olympics.

Overflowing with enthusiasm following Team GB’s triumph, Tom unintentionally revealed his participation in the forthcoming season of the BBC dance program.

Yet, he chose to be less forthcoming concerning 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 talents for the dance floor following his signing with Strictly Come Dancing.

According to reports, the analyst from Sky Sports is expected to join the upcoming season, having successfully conquered struggles with alcohol, substance abuse, and compulsive gambling.

According to The Sun, Sam Quek, the well-known player from Team GB’s hockey team, might be joining Strictly Come Dancing.

Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup
Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup
Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup
Strictly Come Dancing confirms Miranda star Sarah Hadland and another X Factor legend for 2024 series after fans slammed 'B-list' lineup

In my past, I had the privilege to participate in two popular shows – I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! back in 2016, and Celebrity Masterchef in 2020.

Montell Douglas, well-known for her role in Gladiators, is also speculated. At 37 years old, she’s not only participated in the Olympics but also created history by being the first British female athlete to compete in both the Summer and Winter Games.

She was once a sprinter for Team GB and an Olympic bobsledder, and she currently holds the British female record for the fastest 100-meter dash, completing it in 11.05 seconds.

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2024-08-08 11:51

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