Strictly Come Dancing 2025

The BBC has revealed the tenth celebrity joining Strictly Come Dancing 2025 – The Apprentice star Thomas Skinner – as the well-loved dance show prepares for its September launch.

Skinner, who rose to fame in 2019 and has since built a large social media following, said, “I’ve never danced in my life (other than at weddings) but I’m ready to graft and of course have a laugh. Bring on the sequins, sambas and most importantly, the BOSH to the ballroom!”

The contestants for Strictly Come Dancing 2025 include:

• Harry Aikines-Aryeetey – Olympian and Gladiators star.
• Dani Dyer – Love Island winner and daughter of actor Danny Dyer.
• Alex Kingston – Doctor Who actress.
• Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink – Former Chelsea player and England coach.
• Balvinder Sopal – EastEnders’ actress.
• George Clarke – YouTuber and TikTok star.
• La Voix – Drag performer and RuPaul’s Drag Race UK runner-up.
• Chris Robshaw – Rugby player.
• Ellie Goldstein – Model – first with Down syndrome on the cover of British Vogue.
• Thomas Skinner – The Apprentice star and businessman.
• Vikki Pattison – Geordie Shore reality TV star.
• Stefan Dennis – Neighbours actor.
• Ross King – Showbiz reporter.
• Karen Carney – Former footballer.
• Kristian Nairn – Game of Thrones actor.

Strictly’s growing controversy

While the line-up has generated excitement, the show is also under scrutiny. There have been reported allegations of drug use and heavy drinking by two unnamed individuals on the 2023 series, including claims cocaine was taken during after-show parties at Elstree Studios and at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom special.

The drug allegations come after a turbulent year for the BBC and Strictly. In 2023, Amanda Abbington accused professional dancer Giovanni Pernice of “unnecessary, cruel and mean behaviour”. A BBC investigation upheld complaints of verbal bullying and harassment but dismissed claims of physical aggression.

High hopes from this year’s Strictly contestants

Despite the headlines, this year’s contestants are already talking about the challenge ahead. Goldstein told the Daily Mail, “It’s a show I’ve loved watching for so long, and the chance to now be part of it feels like a dream.”

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