Dame Sarah Storey joins Strictly Come Dancing 2026

The BBC announced that Strictly Come Dancing will return in September 2026 on iPlayer and BBC One. Emma Willis will host alongside professional dancer Johannes Radebe and comedian Josh Widdicombe, while the judging panel remains unchanged with Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and Shirley Ballas.

The first celebrity to be confirmed is Dame Sarah Storey, the UK's most successful Paralympian with 19 gold medals. Storey said she is "excited to take on a new challenge" and looks forward to learning from the show's professionals. Other announced participants include presenter Will Best and several returning dance professionals.

The programme’s revamped line‑up and the inclusion of a Paralympic legend have generated considerable buzz ahead of the new series.