Cal Gaunt
The first two celebrities competing in this year’s Strictly Come Dancing have been revealed.
On BBC Breakfast on Thursday, Stockport-born actor Will Mellor was the first to be named as a contestant on the show and said he was ‘chuffed’ to be taking part.
He said: “I’m honestly so chuffed to be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this year!
Watch how Keith Lemon rejected the chance to compete on Strictly Come Dancing…
“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.”
He added: “This is also my mum’s favourite show and she’s had a really tough few years so I’m doing this for her as well. Bring it on!”
Mellor is best known for roles in Two Pints of Lager, Line of Duty and recently as drug-dealing Harvey Gaskell on Coronation Street.
Following the announcement of Mellor, the next contestant to be unveiled was another familiar face on the Corrie cobbles.
Kym Marsh, who has nearly been on the show in recent years but ‘timings never worked out,’ said she is ‘delighted’ to finally take the ballroom stage.
Piers Morgan Slammed Over Comment About Rose Ayling-Ellis’ ‘Strictly’ Win
She told the BBC: “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!”
Mellor’s big break came as James Bolton on Hollyoaks in the 90s, while Marsh got her big break on the reality show Popstars, which saw her join chart-topping pop group Hear’Say.
This year’s edition of the hit dancing show will be its 20th, with the ever-popular Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on hosting duty.
Anton Du Beke, Craig Revel-Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Shirley Ballas will be the judges, while Bruno Tonioli recently confirmed he would not be taking part.
Watch our Video of the Day below…
Do you have a story for us? If so, email us at [email protected]. All contact will be treated in confidence.
