Lacey Turner Confirmed as First Strictly Come Dancing Contestant

Lacey Turner confirmed as first Strictly – The BBC has revealed that actress Lacey Turner will take part in the upcoming 2026 series of *Strictly Come Dancing*, marking her as the first celebrity to be officially announced for the season. The show, which is set to debut in the autumn, has seen its traditional timeline shift, with the revelation arriving earlier than the usual August announcement. This change has sparked curiosity among fans, who are now anticipating further details about the lineup as the series approaches its September launch.

Turner, known for her role as Stacey Slater on *EastEnders*, expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunity. In a statement, she described her excitement as “incredible,” noting that she had long admired the show but had never dared to audition. “I’ve had so many friends do Strictly, and I thought it was about time I stepped onto the dance floor myself,” she said, reflecting on her decision to join the competition. Her participation has been met with widespread interest, as the show continues to attract top talent and iconic personalities each year.

“There are going to be some people on there that will make you go ‘wow,'” remarked Shirley Ballas, head judge of the show, during a recent interview with ITV’s *Good Morning Britain*. Ballas, who is returning to the judging panel for the 2026 series, hinted at the surprise factor of this year’s lineup. She also shared her excitement about the new presenting trio, stating, “I’m very excited to see what they bring to the show. I know they took lots of chemistry tests, and those tests have brought together a team I believe is absolutely unbelievable.”

Following Ballas’s remarks, the BBC confirmed that the show will be hosted by Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe. This marks a departure from the previous team, which included Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The decision to replace the long-standing presenters has raised questions about the new dynamic, though Ballas suggested the shift could be a positive development. “There are new dancers, new presenters, I heard a lot that there was supposed to be a new set, but don’t believe everything you read,” she added, emphasizing that the show’s core elements would remain recognizable to viewers.

Turner’s announcement has been particularly notable for its timing. While the BBC typically unveils the full lineup in August, this year’s first celebrity reveal occurred in the summer, generating early buzz. The corporation has not yet provided a reason for the accelerated schedule, but it has assured fans that more names will be unveiled “throughout the summer” before the series officially kicks off in September. This approach allows for a more gradual build-up of anticipation, though it has already sparked lively discussions online.

“I can’t quite believe I will be taking part and not watching at home this year,” Turner said in an Instagram video, capturing her mixed emotions about the transition. The clip highlighted her nervousness as well as her eagerness to embrace the challenge. “But I’ve had so many friends do Strictly, and I thought it was about time I pluck up the courage and made my way on to the dance floor,” she added, underscoring her commitment to the program.

Turner’s career has been defined by her iconic role as Stacey Slater on *EastEnders*, which she portrayed since 2004. Her performance earned her multiple accolades, including a British Soap Award and a National Television Award. Beyond her work on the soap opera, she has also appeared in popular dramas such as the BBC’s *Our Girl*, showcasing her versatility as an actor. This new venture into *Strictly* represents a significant step for Turner, as she transitions from acting to dance, embracing a different kind of spotlight.

The 2026 series will see the return of several familiar faces, including Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke. These judges, who have been instrumental in the show’s success, are expected to maintain the high standards that have made *Strictly* a beloved television staple. However, the professional dance team will undergo changes, with Gorka Marquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, and Michelle Tsiakkas stepping away from the program. Despite this, regular participants like Amy Dowden, Dianne Buswell, Katya Jones, Vito Coppola, and Aljaz Skorjanec will remain, ensuring continuity for fans.

As the show gears up for its new season, the blend of fresh faces and returning favorites is expected to create a unique atmosphere. Ballas’s comments about the lineup suggest that this year’s competition will be as entertaining as ever, with the potential for unexpected talent. “There are new dancers, new presenters, I heard a lot that there was supposed to be a new set, but don’t believe everything you read,” she reiterated, reminding viewers that while the show may incorporate new elements, its essence will remain unchanged.

The early announcement of Turner’s participation has already set the tone for the 2026 series. Her involvement adds a layer of excitement, especially as she is a well-known name in British television. Fans are eager to see how her experience as an actress will complement her dancing skills, and the show’s producers are likely confident in the impact her presence will have. With the combination of seasoned judges and a new wave of contestants, the 2026 edition of *Strictly Come Dancing* promises to be a thrilling season filled with drama, competition, and the enduring magic of the dance floor.

As the BBC continues to unveil the details, the anticipation for the autumn debut is growing. While the full lineup has yet to be confirmed, the return of key figures and the introduction of new talent hint at an exciting lineup. Turner’s journey from the world of acting to the dance arena is just the beginning, and viewers can expect more surprises as the summer progresses. The show’s ability to adapt while staying true to its roots ensures that it will remain a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its blend of celebrity and skill.