Strictly Come Dancing is back on Saturday (27 Sept) for the first live show of the series! The multi-award-winning entertainment show, produced by BBC Studios, airs at 6:55pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Ahead of the first live show, here’s the class of Strictly Come Dancing 2025 answering the questions !

Alex Kingston

Partnered with Johannes Rabede

Why did you want to take part in Strictly this year?

One of my friends actually texted me when they heard I was doing it and said, “Finally! You’ve been banging on about Strictly for 20 years, you’re finally doing it!”. It really felt like now or never, so I decided to just jump in and go for it.

What does Strictly Come Dancing mean to you?

To me, Strictly signals the end of summer. The beginning of nights drawing in, sitting in front of the television watching the glitz and glamour and suddenly you’re spending every Saturday evening in front of the telly until Christmas.

Is there a dance you’re looking forward to?

I’m looking forward to the Latin dances. As much as it’s not in my comfort zone, I love Latin music. I love the rhythm of Latin so that’s the area I’m most looking forward to.

Are there any dances you’re nervous about?

I’m nervous about the Quickstep as I just don’t understand the rhythm of it! I’m also nervous about the Jive! When I was a little girl, my dad used to jive with me and he was a brilliant jive dancer, as was my mum. But their jiving was very different to a Strictly jiving. Strictly jiving is much more energetic and dynamic so I feel a bit nervous about tackling that!

Do you have a signature dance move?

I suppose if I had to name one, it’d be a little shimmy. That’s probably it!

Do you have any standout memories from watching any previous series?

I had the privilege to be at the Strictly final when Kelvin Fletcher and Oti Mabuse were competing, and I was blown away by their Jailhouse Rock dance.

Which of your characters from screen or stage would do best or worst on Strictly Come Dancing ?

River Song would be a good contestant for Strictly! She’d adore the sequins and the big hair. Although she does like to lead, so she might not be the best dance partner. There might be a tussle in terms of who would actually be leading the dance!

In terms of may be the worst, I’d say two characters I’ve played – Diana Bishop in A Discovery of Witches and Lucifer in the series Dodger. They probably wouldn’t be the best movers!

Balvinder Sopal

Partnered with Julian Caillon

Why did you want to take part in Strictly Come Dancing this year?

It’s been a lifelong dream from the moment I saw the show 21 years ago. I just love the idea of learning to dance. The music, the dances and the show inspired a generation of wannabe Ballroom dancers. 

What does Strictly Come Dancing mean to you?

Saturday night entertainment! A moment for the family to be together surrounded around the telly – being taken on a beautiful musical journey. But also, a place where contestants can explore another side to them and find a new confidence in themselves that they perhaps had no idea existed.

Is there a dance that you’re most looking forward to?

Or one you might be most nervous about? The Argentine Tango both excites me and fills me with fear. The leg kicks, the drama, passion, the music! I ADORE the sound of the violin. I really wanted to learn to play the violin as I find it to be such a heartachingly beautiful sound and the Argentine Tango encapsulates that ache. It is a stunning dance to watch. 

Do you have any standout memories from watching the previous series?

It has to be Rose Ayling-Ellis’ Couple’s Choice. It was a very profound moment when we were plunged into silence and the floor was alive with vibration as Rose and Giovanni danced. I also loved

Mark Ramprakash and Karen Hardy’s Salsa. It was fun and fiery. I also loved Johannes and John Whaite’s Rumba to Shape of My Heart. I just loved the colours of their outfits and the ballroom lights – the colour blue was emotive alongside the movement and music. The band were also just sublime.

Chris Robshaw

Partnered with Nadiya Bychkova

Why did you want to take part in Strictly Come Dancing this year?

As you get older, I feel like you get less opportunities to really push yourself out of your comfort zone. My wife asked me ‘When was the last time you really did something that scared you?’ and that was a real motivator to take part. It’s that combination of learning a new skill, letting yourself go and pushing yourself. When you retire from sport, it is hard to find any adrenaline that matches going out onto the pitch, so I think Strictly gives the perfect opportunity for that. Even though as I said, I am very much out of my comfort zone! My mum has said I should come along to her Zumba classes to practice… I should perhaps start to consider that…

What does Strictly Come Dancing mean to you?

It’s a family show that everyone can watch and enjoy together on a Saturday night – which is rare these days. It also provides a great opportunity for people to find new confidence within themselves. A good friend of mine Ugo Monye also took part a few years back of course, so Ugo I’m coming for you!

Is there a dance that you’re most looking forward to, or one you might be most nervous about?

They’re all pretty terrifying and I don’t totally know the differences between them all yet. I never really thought I’d be swapping the scrum for the samba or cha-cha’ing in front of the nation, but here we go!

How is this going to be different to playing rugby?

It’s a whole different ballgame in every way. I guess the regular feedback from the judges is the only thing that makes it slightly similar, as when you’re a sportsperson you obviously have to deal with constant feedback, both positive and negative. So at least I’m well prepared in that sense! But other than that, dancing is completely different in every way – though maybe I’ll be good at a lift?

What is your signature dance move?

It’s got to be the two-step. Or a classic dad dance!

What were your family’s reactions? I don’t think my wife has stopped laughing. She is of course my biggest supporter and has really encouraged me along the journey, but I think she equally finds it hilarious. My sons are excited to see me dancing and are already getting involved, we’ve been dancing a lot to K Pop Demon Hunters around the house to get in the mood!

Ellie Goldstein

Partnered with Vito Coppola

Why did you want to take part in Strictly Come Dancing this year?

I’ve been a big fan of Strictly for many years. It was a big dream of mine to take part so I was so excited when I got the call! I love the glitz and glamour of it all.. the dance routines, the dances, the outfits… I can’t wait to be dancing on Saturday night!

What does Strictly Come Dancing mean to you?

To me, Strictly is all about the makeup, the hair, the dancing – but also about making new friends and sharing an incredible journey with people. I’m just really excited to make some unforgettable memories.

Is there a dance you’re looking forward to?

I’m really looking forward to the Cha Cha Cha! I’m a bit nervous about the Quickstep and the Waltz. Those styles look very elegant but tricky, so we’ll see how they go!

Would you say you have a signature dance move?

Yes – definitely the splits and the shimmy! Those are my go-to moves, and I’ll absolutely be bringing them to the Strictly dancefloor.

You’re making history as the first contestant with Down syndrome to take part in the main series. What does that mean to you?

Being the first contestant with Down syndrome in the main Strictly series gives me the chance to show everyone who I am, what I’ve achieved, and what I’m capable of. I hope I can be an inspiration to others watching at home – and most of all, I hope I make people smile and feel happy when they see me dancing!

George Clarke

Partnered with Alexis Warr

Why did you want to take part in Strictly Come Dancing this year?

I never thought doing Strictly would be a possibility for me, but when the opportunity came up, it was a no-brainer. It’s such an iconic show, and the chance to learn from the best, challenge myself, and be part of something so joyful felt too good to turn down.

What does Strictly Come Dancing mean to you?

For me, Strictly reminds me of sitting around the TV as a family. Growing up, I used to watch it every weekend with my mum and nan so to be part of something that holds such fond memories for me and my family is really special.

Is there a dance you’re most looking forward to? Or one you might be most nervous about?

I think the Latin dances look like a lot of fun – they’re full of energy and personality, which I love. But honestly, I’m up for a challenge. I’m worried about keeping a straight face during some of the Ballroom dances but I’m up for throwing myself into something totally new. Do you have a signature dance move? I never stray too far from a trusty two-step. The moment something more ambitious comes out, I immediately realise where I am and run!

Do you have any standout memories from watching previous series?

I would have to say watching Joe Sugg compete in his series. Seeing him become the first YouTuber on the show was such a big moment – it was amazing to see someone from the online world cross over into something so mainstream and do so well.

Which judge are you keen to impress the most?

Definitely Shirley. She really knows her stuff when it comes to technique. If I can win her over, I’ll feel like I’m doing something right or at least getting very lucky!

Who will be your biggest cheerleaders in the audience each week?

Without a doubt, my mum and nan. If they could come every week, they would and they’ll be cheering louder than anyone else.

How do you feel about being Strictly-fied?

I’m worried that I’ll like the glitter suits a bit too much by the end of this and need to build a new wardrobe. I’m embracing the sparkles, sequins and fake tan – bring it all on!

Harry Aikines-Aryeetey AKA Nitro

Partnered with Karen Hauer

Why did you want to take part in Strictly Come Dancing this year?

I’ve spent my whole life sprinting in straight lines. Strictly is my chance to prove I can actually move in other directions! It’s such an iconic show, and I grew up watching it with my family. I want to push myself out of my comfort zone, swap the track spikes for sequins, and have a laugh whilst learning something completely new.

What does Strictly Come Dancing mean to you?

It’s joy, isn’t it? Proper feel-good family TV. My mum, my little one, my mates… everyone watches it. It’s the kind of show that brings generations together. To be part of that magic, and maybe inspire people who don’t see themselves as “dancers” to give it a go, means a lot.

Is there a dance that you’re most looking forward to? Or one you might be most nervous about?

I’m most looking forward to the Samba! I hear it’s basically the carnival of dances, and I love a party. I’m most nervous about the Waltz, because my coach can get me to run sub-10 seconds but no one’s ever taught me how to look graceful while gliding backwards across a ballroom.

Do you have a signature dance move?

The “Nitro Shuffle.” It’s basically me bouncing from foot to foot like I’m waiting for the starter pistol. It works at weddings, birthdays… less so in a ballroom.

Do you have any standout memories from watching the previous series?

Hamza winning was huge! Just watching his confidence and joy grow each week was inspiring. And Kelvin Fletcher’s Samba was unreal! That clip alone gave me a bit too much false confidence about my own hip action. We’ll see how that plays out.

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink

Partnered with Lauren Oakley

Why did you want to take part in Strictly Come Dancing this year?

Strictly has always been a big show in our family, since the girls were tiny. I have only daughters so we all sit together and watch as a family on a Saturday then watch the results on the Sunday. I never expected me to be on it, because it’s really out of my comfort zone, but I’ve been persuaded by the girls. I’m getting to an age now where I need to let go of being stiff and just enjoy myself! I am very nervous but I want to show my girls that I can do it.

Is there a dance that you’re most looking forward to, or is there one you might be most nervous about?

I’m most nervous about the Latin dances because there’s more movement to them. But on the other hand I’m really looking forward to it. I have no dancing background whatsoever, so I’m really starting from scratch and that is the scary bit about it.

Do you think there are any similarities between football and dance?

I guess being a footballer you are all about the footwork, in certain drills and in warm-ups as well as during the game, but I think dancing is obviously way more centred around the rhythm which isn’t something that necessarily comes with playing football.

Music is a crucial part of Strictly as well as the dancing, are you a fan of music?

Yes, I always listen to music! I’m a fan of R’n’B, soft hip hop and rock. Music has always been big in our family in the same way dancing it. My girls are brilliant singers too. One of my daughters played little Tina Turner in the West End alongside Fleur East!

Do you have a signature dance move?

No! My moves only ever come out at a wedding or a party.

Is there anything you’re hoping to get from Strictly on a personal level?

I think what I want to get out of it is learning a different side of myself. Previously, if you told people who know me that Jimmy is going on Strictly, they would say he would never open himself up to that! And now look at me.

Will any of your football friends be watching?

Oh yeah, they will definitely be watching. I’m sure I’ll be getting lots of jokey messages, all of the teammates from the dressing room will be getting involved!

Karen Carney

Partnered with Carlos Gu

Why did you want to take part in Strictly this year?

I am a huge fan of the show and have been for so long.  I managed to see the Iive show last year and became even more obsessed. Plus, my mom is a huge fan. It’s a great honour to be asked to take part. 

What does Strictly mean to you?

I love getting to know the contestants and the family feel of the show. I love tuning in every week and I am always sad when it is over. 

Is there a dance that you’re most looking forward to?  

I would say Couple’s Choice! I’m most nervous about the Samba and Rumba.

Do you have a signature dance move?  

I can moon walk… kind of?!  

Do you have any standout memories from watching the previous series?  

It has to be Rose Ayling-Ellis’ Couple’s Choice dance when the music stopped – it was a breathtaking moment. I really enjoyed Chris McCausland on the show last year so all of his dances stood out to me.  Also, I loved Hamza and his iconic Couple’s Choice dance with Jowita.

What’s more daunting – playing for England, or taking to the Strictly ballroom?

It has to be Strictly!

We saw Jill Scott’s message to you in the launch show. Will any of your fellow Lionesses be cheering you on in the audience this year?  

I hope so! Schedule depending of course, but it would be ace.

La Voix

Partnered with Aljaž Škorjanec

Why did you want to take part in Strictly Come Dancing this year?

Dance is the one thing I’ve always shied away from in my shows, so I wanted to face this challenge and see if I can come out of it loving to dance. And of course, the Strictly costumes! Anything with sequins – I’m in!

What does Strictly Come Dancing mean to you?

Pizazz, glamour and fun! Strictly is a British institution, and one of the top shows on TV. Tess and Claudia are as iconic as Patsy and Edina, or Cagney and Lacey. I’m showing my age here!  

Is there a dance that you’re most looking forward to? Or one you might be most nervous about?

’m looking forward to the fun up-tempo dances like the Salsa, but I’m not so looking forward to being lifted and flung around! I also enjoy anything slow. The Waltz looks nice because you can just stand on your partner’s feet if you have a long dress and let them do all the work.

Do you have a signature dance move?

I can muster an impressive step dig! I did that in Aladdin in 2008 and I even learnt the Baby Shark routine in 2017 so I’m more than ready! Basically, I have never performed a pure dance number ever! 

Do you have any standout memories from watching the previous series?

What Ed Balls brought to Gangnam Style was epic! And of course, Ann Widdecombe flung around the dancefloor by Anton by her ankles!

You brought flair and fashion to the Drag Race UK workroom last series. What qualities will you bring to the Strictly ballroom?

I aim to bring true entertainment, high energy, vivacious personality and showgirl glamour! When I practise my visualisation exercises with a sound bowl and burning sage, I see myself in the final. In reality, as long as I get up the stairs to Claudia after my week one dance, I consider that an achievement!

You’ve performed in front of RuPaul and Michelle Visage but which Strictly judges are you keen to impress the most?

I’m hoping Craig isn’t too mean! I’m excited to meet all of the judges and hear their genuine critiques but I must say Shirley Ballas is my favourite. She will give me a run for the money on hairspray use!

Lewis Cope

Partnered with Katya Jones

Why did you want to take part in Strictly Come Dancing this year?

Because I’m always up for learning something new and stepping outside of my comfort zone. I love the idea of challenging myself in a completely new way.

What does Strictly Come Dancing mean to you?

Strictly for me is a huge message to everyone saying you can be whoever you want to be. I’m excited for the journey and growing week by week.

Do you have a signature dance move?

I’d say my signature move when I used to dance would have to be a backflip, or maybe some jazz splits. I haven’t done either in a while, so let’s see if I can still pull them out of the bag!

Do you have any standout memories from watching the previous series?

Layton Williams in 2023 had so many standout routines. I thought he was amazing and he just owned the dancefloor. Watching him made me even more excited to give this a go.

Are you excited to be swapping the Dales for the dancefloor?

I can’t wait to swap the Dales for the dance floor. It does seem a lot warmer too!

Will any of your Emmerdale castmates be cheering you on in the audience?

Yes! Beth Cordingly and Will Ash, who play my parents, have both said they’re so excited to watch me. And Natalie J. Robb too – they’ve all been so supportive. I know they’ll be cheering from the audience!

Ross King

Partnered with Jowita Przystał

What does Strictly Come Dancing mean to you?

It means a lot, because obviously it’s in my home country. I’ve been following Dancing With The Stars since living in LA, and a decade or so ago I was so lucky to go along with Katherine Jenkins when she was participating. I felt so lucky I saw her but I must admit, it actually put me off, because she was so brilliant! And I thought, oh my goodness, the standard is ridiculously high. So I thought, no, I just cannot do this, but I’ve plucked up the courage!

Is there a dance that you’re most looking forward to, or one you might be most nervous about?

Every single dance fills me with absolute dread – every single one! But there’s a great Scottish dance called the slosh, which is basically Scottish line dancing. If I could incorporate that in any way then I’d be happy.

Do you have a signature dance move?

The slosh of course!

How does it feel to be representing Scotland?

It is a lot of pressure, but in a lovely way, to be representing the country. Initially you think I’ve got to do the best for myself and for my family and loved ones but then I’m like well I need to do well for Scotland too! And of course my lovely Lorraine family. It’s a big ask but I’m up for it! The Scots are also just so brilliant at backing their own. I’ve found that since coming back and getting to go back up to Glasgow, there’s tons of support and it’s just wonderful. What’s that wonderful phrase? Joyful panic…

You’ve interviewed plenty of Hollywood stars in your time – will you bring some of that sparkle to the dance floor?

I will certainly do my best to bring a little bit of Hollywood sparkle to the glitter ball, even though the glitter ball sparkles so well on its own. I won’t be like Fred Astaire or Gene Kelly, I’ll be more like Gene Astaire or Fred Kelly!

Stefan Dennis

Partnered with Dianne Buswell

Why did you want to take part in Strictly Come Dancing this year?

Funnily enough when Neighbours ended, I was preparing for semi-retirement. I’m now dancing 8 hours a day… how did that happen?! Jokes aside, my beautiful wife is a fantastic dancer and has had a brilliant professional dancing career. I love the thought of going back to Australia and being able to take her out dancing. I’m also really looking forward to working hard but having fun along the way.

What does Strictly Come Dancing mean to you?

I’ll be honest I’m quite blown away by the scale of Strictly. In Australia we have Dancing With The Stars which I’m familiar with, but the love for Strictly in the UK really is a different level. I knew it was big, but it’s only once you’re inside the machine that you realise how big. It’s this well-oiled juggernaut, and it feels really exciting to be a small cog in it. Also, as a performer it’s exciting to be part of something that pushes yourself out of your comfort zone and helps you add another string to your bow. I guess after this you could call me a triple threat?!

Is there a dance that makes you most excited, or most nervous?

I can’t dance. They all make me feel petrified if I’m totally honest and I’ve no dance background whatsoever. My wife is a professional dancer, and even she gave up trying to teach me a basic waltz years ago. I just buried my head in the sand. But hey, it’s only up from here.

Have you enjoyed being Strictlyfied?

I’ve been wearing suits as Paul Robinson for 40 years, so I think it’s about time I had a bit of sparkle. That’s all part of the joy too, right?

Will you be bringing some of Paul Robinson to the dancefloor?

I think if I get a dramatic dance like a Tango or a Paso Doble, leaning into Paul Robinson could be quite helpful. Every soap had a villain, and I was the resident one for Neighbours, but hopefully I’ll be less evil with my feet.

How do you feel to be representing Australia?

It’s a real honour. I’ve been part of something iconic with Neighbours for most of my life and now I get the opportunity to represent Australia in another iconic show that the British public absolutely adore. With Dianne and our new Australian Pro Julian too, that makes for an Aussie takeover this year!

Tom Skinner

Partnered with Amy Dowden

Why did you want to take part in Strictly Come Dancing this year?

Well, I love Strictly because it’s a family show. I’ve got three young kids, and I can’t wait for them to watch me dance. It’s my mum’s favourite show as well. It’s an opportunity to learn how to dance and I don’t know how to dance at all! But I love a challenge, I love setting myself goals. Most people probably think, “Tom’s not going to be able to do this”, so I really want to prove them wrong. I want to be in people’s front rooms on a Saturday night, showing them that I can dance.

What does Strictly Come Dancing mean to you?

Strictly is a show that’s challenging, yet family orientated. It’s a warm and loving show which brings everyone together on a Saturday night with a takeaway.

You see people from all different walks of life trying to dance and that can be funny yet brilliant as well. It’s given us some of the most iconic moments on telly in the past decade.

In your regular life, do you have a signature dance move?

Yeah, the lawnmower!

Do you have any standout memories from watching previous series of Strictly Come Dancing ?

I remember JB Gill doing his Waltz last year and his head didn’t move at all. I was watching him thinking, “How does he do that?!”.

Has anything surprised you about your Strictly Come Dancing journey so far?

I was at a West Ham game just after I was announced for Strictly, and I got stopped by so many fellas telling me they were going to watch Strictly for the first time because of me! I wasn’t expecting that.

Vicky Pattison

Partnered with Kai Widdrington

What does Strictly Come Dancing mean to you?

As you get older, you get fewer and fewer chances to truly push yourself and try something new. It’s very easy to stay in your comfort zone and I’m guilty of that. I love my little routine! Strictly offers this incredible opportunity to grow whether that’s learning to dance, meeting new people, or just getting fitter. It’s a chance to discover what you’re capable of, and I’m really grateful for that.

Is there a dance you’re most looking forward to or most nervous about?

Honestly, asking me about the specific dances feels a bit above my pay grade! I love the show, the theatrics and the pageantry of it all, but I’m an absolute novice when it comes to dancing.

I feel like one of the slower, graceful ones like the Waltz might suit me. But the fast ones? I’m terrified! I’m a bit clumsy, and I never know what my legs are going to do next!

Do you have a signature dance move?

Absolutely not. You will not catch me on the dance floor at a party. I’m more likely to be in the kitchen talking or making business plans after a glass of wine! I’ve got no dance moves so whoever my partner is going to be will need a lot of patience!

Do you have any standout memories from previous series?

In the last couple of years, people like Sara Davies really stood out with her strength, her work ethic and that proper North East lass energy. I absolutely loved that. Angela Scanlon was another one. I think she was so elegant and graceful, and just such a class act. And of course, Pete Wicks. In terms of background, I really relate to him. He had no dance training, came in completely blind, and gave it everything. He worked so hard, had such a great attitude and the public got right behind him. It was a proper testament to what can happen when you just go for it.

Which judge are you most keen to impress?

All of them, please! But I’ll admit I’ve got a bit of a girl crush on Shirley and Motsi! I just genuinely love them!

I’ve met Anton a few times and I adore him. I did a talk show with him once and he literally picked me up like I weighed nothing! If he were still dancing, he’d have been my dream partner.

I am the most nervous about Craig! He’s got a quick wit and strong opinions but he knows what he’s talking about. I’ll work hard, take his feedback on board, and keep trying my best.

How has it been to be Strictly-fied?

This was honestly the bit I was most looking forward to. I’m a Geordie girl so I love my glam and I love my tan – I’m practically radioactive half the time anyway! I love the hair extensions and the eyelashes. Being Strictly-fied isn’t even a leap out of my comfort zone, it’s basically my everyday life. I’m always ready for glitter in my hair, sequins, spandex, lycra… whatever they throw at me, I’ll take it!

Who will be your biggest cheerleaders in the audience each week?

My husband, for sure. We got married last year and he’s been such a huge support. When I was nervous about saying yes to Strictly, he was the one telling me I had to do it and that I’d love it. He’s been behind me from day one.

My family and best mates have been fighting over tickets! I know Pete will come to watch, and I really hope Sara and Angela will come too. I’ve got a great cheer squad and I’m hoping their support gets me through because I’m a very nervous egg!

Have any past Strictly Come Dancing contestants given you advice?

Yes, I’ve been absolutely inundated with brilliant advice. I couldn’t ask for a better circle around me. Angela Scanlon told me to start soaking my feet in surgical spirits early. Apparently, it toughens them up and helps with the pain when your trotters start hurting! So, I’ll be doing that starting from now. She’s really competitive and takes it all so seriously in the best way.

Pete, on the other hand, was a total “fly by the seat of his pants” guy. He couldn’t believe he made it through each week! His advice was to work hard, keep your head down, be yourself, and enjoy it. It’s honestly lovely having both of their perspectives.

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