Kym Marsh is the second contestant to be announced for Strictly Come Dancing. The former Corrie and Hear'Say star, 46, was one of the names who was revealed on BBC Breakfast this morning, after the news that Hollyoaks legend Will Mellor is also taking part.
Strictly Come Dancing is set to kick off next month, and fans will likely know which celebrity is paired with which pro by mid-September. The 20th series will come as a part of the BBC ’s 100th anniversary, with recording beginning on September 7. Familiar faces will be back with Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman hosting the Launch Show.
Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps legend Will told BBC Breakfast this morning that he was "so chuffed" to be part of the show but admitted that it was "totally out of his comfort zone".
“I'm honestly so chuffed to be taking part this year," he said. "Not going to lie, it's totally out of my comfort zone and I know it will be a huge challenge but that's what life is all about.
"This is also my Mum's favourite show and she’s had a really tough few years so I’m doing this is for her as well. Bring it on!”
Kym is well known for her role of Michelle Connor in Coronation Street, for which she won ‘Best Newcomer’ at both the National Television Awards and British Soap Awards.
Kym has also had a successful music career, both in the band Hear’Say, which she won a place in after appearing on the show Popstars, and as a solo artist. Recently Kym played the notorious Alex in the touring theatre production of Fatal Attraction. Currently a presenter on BBC One’s Morning Live, Kym is soon set to star in the revival on BBC One drama Waterloo Road.
Kym Marsh said: “I’ve considered doing Strictly for years but the timings never worked out. I’m so delighted that this year they have! I’m a huge fan of the show and can’t believe I’m going to go from watching at home in my pyjamas to actually dancing in front of the judges in a glittery dress, it’s unreal!”
This season is set to be thrilling, with special guests and fun tributes for the 100th anniversary BBC celebration, making for must-see TV. And some will be able to see the pros up close even sooner, with lucky fans in for the chance to see the pro dancers performing a group number with “special guests” on August 24.
Changes which fans can expect include the line-up of pro dancers as Oti Mabuse and Alijaz Skorjanec quit the show after the last season.
Aljaz's wife Janette Manrara will continue to host It Takes Two.
Bruno Tonioli will also be absent as he stepped down as a judge after 18 years in May, prompting speculation he'll be replaced officially by former pro dancer Anton Du Beke, who stepped in for Bruno when he was unable to travel during the pandemic.
*Strictly will kick off in early September on BBC One
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