Entertainment news Ireland is already turning its attention to autumn television, and few returning shows are generating as much buzz as Strictly Come Dancing. With the 2026 season set to launch in September, the BBC favourite has begun unveiling its celebrity line-up — and the mix so far promises glamour, surprises and plenty of competitive spirit.
This year’s cast stretches across soap stars, singers, athletes, presenters and reality TV names, giving fans of TV news Ireland and Irish entertainment news plenty to talk about ahead of the live shows. Add in a refreshed presenting team and the result is one of the biggest pre-season talking points in trending entertainment Ireland.
Strictly Come Dancing 2026 line-up: who’s confirmed so far
So far, 11 contestants have been confirmed for the new season, each bringing a very different energy to the ballroom.
- Lacey Turner – The long-time EastEnders favourite said she is thrilled to swap the sofa for the dance floor after years of watching as a fan.
- Dani Dyer – After missing out last year through injury, the former Love Island star gets a second shot and says she is eager to finally make it to week one.
- Delta Goodrem – The singer and performer described joining the show as a new stage challenge after a career spanning music, television and touring.
- Chris Appleton – Known for styling A-list celebrities, he now moves from behind the scenes to centre stage.
- Cach Mercer – Another Love Island name in the cast, Mercer says dancing has long been a personal passion.
- Will Best – The broadcaster is leaning into the nerves, calling the booking both a dream and a major challenge.
- Dame Sarah Storey – The decorated Paralympian says the show offers a fresh test and a chance to better understand her dancer daughter’s world.
- Jaime Winstone – The actress is embracing what she called her “showgirl era” as she prepares for the ballroom.
- Bethany Antonia – The House of the Dragon actress joins with strong fan support and clear excitement about learning a new craft.
- Shaun Wright-Phillips – The former footballer admits it is outside his comfort zone, but says he is ready for the challenge.
- Graeme Hall – The TV dog trainer rounds out the list, describing the opportunity as exciting and nerve-wracking in equal measure.
Why this cast is already making headlines
From a celebrity news Ireland perspective, this is the kind of line-up that gives producers broad appeal. Soap loyalists have Turner, sports fans have Storey and Wright-Phillips, while viewers who follow reality TV Ireland will be watching Dani Dyer and Cach Mercer closely.
There is also a smart balance between proven performers and wildcard contestants. Delta Goodrem and Jaime Winstone arrive with stage confidence, but names like Chris Appleton and Graeme Hall could become the season’s breakout stories if they connect with viewers early.
What viewers can expect before September
More names are still expected to be announced, so the current 11 may be only the start. For fans tracking the latest entertainment news Ireland, the next big talking points will likely be:
- Who completes the final cast
- Which professionals each celebrity is paired with
- How the new presenting line-up changes the show’s tone
- Which contestant emerges as the early favourite
As ever, chemistry, resilience and public support will matter just as much as technique. That is what keeps Strictly central to the autumn conversation in TV and streaming Ireland, even before the first score paddle appears.
Final word
If early casting is any guide, this season is shaping up to be one of the most varied in years. For fans following entertainment news Ireland, the 2026 Strictly Come Dancing rollout has already delivered a strong mix of star power, comeback stories and genuine unpredictability — exactly the ingredients a ballroom blockbuster needs.
