Strictly Come Dancing has just revealed the very first celebrity contestant to be taking to the ballroom for the brand-new 2026 series – and it's none other than EastEnders icon, Lacey Turner.
The announcement was made across the BBC show's social channels, with Strictly's official Instagram account sharing a reel that revealed a photo of the actor and the iconic glitter ball graphic. "We can't wait to see you on the dancefloor," the caption read.
Along with the news, Lacey Turner has shared a statement: "I am so excited to being making my way to the dance floor this year to be a part of Strictly Come Dancing! I am a huge fan and can't quite believe I will be taking part and not watching at home this year! I look forward to meeting everyone and learning a new skill!"
Related: Best streaming services
Lacey is perhaps most recognisable from her role as Stacey Slater on EastEnders. She joined the beloved soap in 2004, and has appeared in a number of its standout storylines over the years, winning multiple accolades including British Soap Awards and National Television Awards.
The actor said farewell to EastEnders in an emotional video back in October 2025, although she also revealed that fans could expect her character to return at some point in the future.
What to Read Next
Lacey also previously appeared in the lead role of the popular BBC series Our Girl, which aired the first season in 2014. Lacey played recruit Molly Dawes in the army drama, before Michelle Keegan went on to take on a new lead character from the second season.
Strictly Come Dancing's 2026 run is set to look very different, with a trio of new hosts recently confirmed. After much speculation over who might replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, it was revealed in May that seasoned presenter Emma Willis, beloved professional dancer Johannes Radebe, and comedian Josh Widdicombe would be filling those shoes.
At the time of their announcement, former Big Brother presenter Emma described Tess and Claudia as "two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long".
"I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter," she added. "I can't wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges. Fingers crossed for a 10 from them!"
But what other celebrities will be taking to the floor in 2026, joining Lacey Turner, and also hoping for a "10" from the judges?
As always, there have been a number of rumours circulating the 2026 celebrity lineup, with other suggested (but unconfirmed) names including Hollyoaks star Sarah Jayne Dunn, This Morning's Josie Gibson, and Love Island's Dani Dyer – who you will likely remember, had to withdraw from last year's show due to an injury.
The BBC has said that further news about Strictly Come Dancing's 2026 series will be revealed during the summer, ahead of the dance competition's return on BBC One and BBC iPlayer this September.
Strictly Come Dancing will return to the BBC later this year.
Visit our Streaming Guide now to see at a glance where you can view ALL your favourite shows and movies.
The new edition of Living Legends, a collector's edition exploring the royal family, is here! Buy The Royals in newsagents or online.
TV Editor, Digital Spy Laura has been watching television for over 30 years and professionally writing about entertainment for almost 10 of those. Previously at LOOK and now heading up the TV desk at the UK's biggest TV and movies site Digital Spy, Laura has helped steer conversations around some of the most popular shows on the box. Laura has appeared on Channel 5 News and radio to talk viewing habits and TV recommendations. As well as putting her nerd-level Buffy knowledge to good use during an IRL meet with Sarah Michelle Gellar, Laura also once had afternoon tea with One Direction, has sat around the fire pit of the Love Island villa, spoken to Sir David Attenborough about the world's oceans and even interviewed Rylan from inside the Big Brother house (housemate status, forever pending).
