Nick Knowles, Paul Merson, and Sam Quek have been revealed as the final three contestants for this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. Knowles, a TV presenter, expressed his excitement at the opportunity to dance live on TV, calling it a new adventure. Merson, a former England footballer, is hoping to overcome his two left feet and potentially take home the glitterball trophy. Quek, an Olympic gold medallist, is thrilled to be part of the legendary show and ready to embrace the adventure of performing.
In addition to these contestants, other notable participants include Morning Live doctor Punam Krishan, Gladiator and Olympian Montell Douglas, EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick, Olympic swimmer Tom Dean, singer Shayne Ward, and Miranda actress Sarah Hadland. Comedian Chris McCausland will make history as Strictly’s first blind contestant, while JLS star JB Gill, Go Compare opera singer Wynne Evans, singer Toyah Willcox, Love Island’s Tasha Ghouri, and reality TV star Pete Wicks will also be competing.
The show will be hosted by Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, with judges Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood, and Anton Du Beke returning. Strictly Come Dancing, a long-time favorite among viewers, attracted nearly 10 million viewers for last year’s final. However, recent controversies have surrounded the program, including allegations of threatening and abusive behavior by former contestant Amanda Abbington against dancer Giovanni Pernice, who denies the claims.
Another incident involved Love Island star Zara McDermott accusing dancer Graziano Di Prima of kicking her, which he admitted to but claimed it was unintentional. TV presenter Laura Whitmore also spoke out about experiencing inappropriate behavior during her time on the show. In response, the BBC has implemented new welfare measures for the upcoming series, including having a chaperone present at all rehearsals.
The upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing promises to be full of talent, drama, and excitement as the contestants take to the dance floor in hopes of winning the coveted glitterball trophy. With a diverse lineup and returning fan-favorite hosts and judges, viewers can expect another thrilling season of the popular dance competition show.