Strictly Come Dancing will be returning to screens this autumn, and a new line-up of famous faces are already preparing to strap on their dancing shoes.
The star-studded dance competition has now confirmed the first celebrity who will be competing in the 2025 series.
In a surprise announcement that saw him prank CBBC's Newsround viewers, Harry Aikines-Aryeetey has been confirmed as the first star taking part in Strictly this year.
Aikines-Aryeetey, who is best known as an Olympian and star of Gladiators, is a multi-gold medal-winning Team GB sprinter.
The famous athlete has competed in two Olympic games, is a three-time European Champion, and is a two-time Commonwealth Champion.
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He’s got a little dancing experience at the ready, having competed in the 2024 Strictly Christmas special alongside pro dancer Nancy Xu.
“After the Christmas Special, it was so nice I just had to do it twice!” he enthused. “I’m so excited to be part of the Strictly family this series and I’m ready to give it all I’ve got.
“I’ll be bringing tons of energy to light up the dance floor. Let’s hope I’m as quick picking up the routines as I am on the track.”
The Olympian and Gladiators star announced the news live from the Newsround studio on Monday morning.
Tricking viewers, he appeared disguised as a choreographer there to talk about a scientific study into the benefits of dancing.
However, Newsround presenter Jenny Lawrence quickly rumbled the star and Aikines-Aryeetey explained he was really there to announce he’d be taking part in Strictly.
Strictly Come Dancing airs on Saturdays on BBC One, while spin-off Strictly: It Takes Two airs on weeknights on BBC Two. Both shows are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
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Emma is an experienced entertainment news journalist with NCTJ accreditation and a First-Class Honours Degree in Journalism. Having started her career as a broadcast journalist, Emma’s voice has been heard on varying radio stations across the UK including Absolute, Magic, BBC Three Counties Radio, LBC London News and more.
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While she’s gained lots of praise during celebrity interviews throughout her career, the most memorable compliment Emma’s ever received was when a Game of Thrones star remarked "Your teeth are stunning!". LinkedIn
