One of the biggest music stars of the 1980s is currently being lined up for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Shakin' Stevens, real name Mike Barratt, who had hits with Merry Christmas Everyone and This Ole House, has been tipped to appear at the iconic ballroom for this year's programme alongside other famous faces.
According to a well-placed source who spoke to the Daily Star, 'Shakey' has been chased by BBC producers who are reportedly desperate for him to feature this year. Their hopes were boosted when the 75-year-old returned to the charts with his first album in seven years in April.
“Bosses have spent years trying to get national Shakey on the show and are hopeful that he’ll finally say yes," the source said.
"Shakey is considered a national treasure thanks to that big Christmas hit and is certain to be popular with viewers. Bosses are hoping he can be the older contestant who surprises everyone. His hip-shaking on the Top of the Pops is legendary!"
Shakey was the UK's biggest-selling singles artist back in the 1980s and became a household name due to his Elvis-inspired appearance and songs inspired by the classic rock 'n' roll era.
Meanwhile, other contestants rumoured to be taking part in this year's Strictly Come Dancing include TV presenter Sophie Morgan, who would be the first wheelchair user to take part in the BBC show.
Downton Abbey’s Amy Nuttall, Emma and Matt Willis, Gino D’Acampo, Peter Crouch and Steph McGovern are also said to be in the running for the latest series, which is set to kick off in September this year.
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