A year after EastEnders starRose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni Pernice were crowned the winners ofStrictly Come Dancing, a whole new host of stars have their eyes set on taking home the famous Glitterball trophy.
The popular BBC series recently announced that preparation for the 2022 series is well and truly underway,with recording for the launch show set to take place on Wednesday 7 September.
Confirming the news, the broadcaster said: “The stunning 20th series returns, bringing glamour and show-stopping dancing back to Saturday nights on BBC One – and we’re extremely excited to be able to welcome an audience back to the studio for this year’s shows.”
And with the countdown to Strictly officially on, the show has started unveiling its star-studded line-up. So, let’s take a peek at who’s set to take to the dancefloor…
Will Mellor
Two Pints of Lager and A Packet of Crisps star Will Mellor is the first celebrity to be confirmed for the 2022 series.
During an episode of BBC Breakfast, presenters Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt welcomed Will to the studio and announced that he would be donning some sequins and putting on his dancing shoes as he gets ready to hit the dancefloor.
Speaking of the announcement, 46 year old Will said: “I’m honestly so chuffed to be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this year! Not going to lie, it’s totally out of my comfort zone and I know it will be a huge challenge but that’s what life is all about.
“This is also my Mum’s favourite show and she’s had a really tough few years so I’m doing this for her as well. Bring it on!”
While Will may be best known for playing Gaz in the noughties sitcom Two Pints of Lager and A Packet of Crisps, viewers may also know the actor from his roles in shows including Line of Duty, Broadchurch and Hollyoaks.
Most recently, Will appeared in Coronation Street as Weatherfield villain Harvey Gaskell between March 2021 and October 2021.
Speaking to OK! about his time on the cobbles, he said: “It was great to play a Corrie baddie. I feel like I’ve ticked off a career goal with that, and my mum was so proud of me.”
Kym Marsh
Kym Marsh is the second contestant confirmed to be hitting the dancefloor this year.
The 46 year old found fame as part of pop group Hear'Say in 2001 and then went on to join the soap, where she played Michelle Connor for 13 years.
In an Instagram post announcing the news, Strictly Come Dancing said: “She's an actress, singer, presenter and now soon to be #Strictly dancer! Say hello to Kym Marsh [dancing emoji] @marsh_kym”.
Announcing the news, Kym admitted that it’s something she’s thought about doing for “years” but now was the perfect timing.
“I’ve considered doing Strictly for years but the timings never worked out. I’m so delighted that this year they have!,” she said.
“I’m a huge fan of the show and can’t believe I’m going to go from watching at home in my pyjamas to actually dancing in front of the judges in a glittery dress, it’s unreal!”
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