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Strictly Come Dancing signs up EastEnders legend as first star named in 2026 line-up

EastEnders legend Lacey Turner has officially been named as Strictly Come Dancing's first celebrity contestant this year, with many more famous faces to follow the BBC actress

[The image features a golden orb with the text "Strictly Come Dancing" displayed prominently in an elegant script. The orb is set against a vibrant blue background adorned with radiating streaks of light, creating an effect of motion and excitement. The overall design is dynamic and celebratory, suggestive of a festive announcement or event related to the show "Strictly Come Dancing."]

The show is coming back in 2026(Image: BBC)

Strictly Come Dancing has finally unveiled its first celebrity contestant for 2026 and soap fans are in for a treat.

EastEnders favourite Lacey Turner has officially signed up for the hit BBC dance competition, becoming the first star confirmed for this year's glittering line-up. The actress, who has played Stacey Slater for more than two decades, admitted she is already counting down the days until she takes to the famous ballroom floor.

Speaking about the exciting news, Lacey said: "I am so excited to be making my way to the dance floor this year to be a part of strictly-come-dancing>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!"

[Lacey Turner]

Lacey Turner is joining the line-up(Image: WireImage)

Lacey's signing is likely to be a huge hit with viewers, with the actress one of the most recognisable faces in British soap history.

She first joined EastEnders in 2004 and quickly became a fan favourite thanks to her portrayal of fiery Stacey Slater. Over the years, the character has been at the centre of some of the show's biggest storylines, including her bipolar disorder battle, dramatic family feuds and explosive romances.

Her performances have earned widespread praise, with Lacey picking up multiple awards throughout her career, including British Soap Awards and National Television Awards.

While many fans know her best from Albert Square, Lacey has also enjoyed success away from Walford. She starred in the BBC military drama Our Girl and has appeared in a number of theatre productions and television dramas.

[Lacey Turner as Stacey Slater in EastEnders]

Stacey plays Lacey on the BBC soap(Image: BBC / Jack Barnes)

Now she is swapping scripts for sequins as she prepares to tackle one of television's toughest challenges.

The announcement is already generating excitement among Strictly fans, with many predicting Lacey could go far in the competition thanks to her determination and popularity with viewers.

Every year the BBC dance show attracts millions of viewers, with celebrities spending months training alongside professional dancers in the hope of lifting the coveted Glitterball Trophy.

With Lacey now confirmed as the first celebrity contestant, speculation is already mounting over who else could be joining the line-up when the remaining stars are announced.

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