Will Mellor has been announced as the first contestant for BBC Strictly Come Dancing.
The former Hollyoaks star has been unveiled as part of the celebrity line-up for the new series.
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.
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.
The BBC announced Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps legend Will in a Tweet this morning.
Will said: “I'm honestly so chuffed to be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this year! 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!”
Will is known for his many acting roles over the last 30 years, including starring in Hollyoaks, Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps, Line of Duty and Broadchurch. Most recently he appeared in Coronation Street as Harvey Gaskell. As well as his acting career, Will reached number 5 in the UK Singles Chart with ‘When I Need You’ in 1998. He recently toured the UK with a live version of the popular podcast he co-hosts with Ralf Little, Two Pints with Will and Ralf.
Fans can apply for tickets on the official BBC website at any time until 10pm on Sunday 7 August. Those who apply will be entered into a random draw.
This year there will be 20 pro dancers to mark the 20th series, making it the biggest line up that the show has ever run.
The BBC said: “Dust off your dancing shoes, Strictly Come Dancing is back! The stunning 20th series returns, bringing glamour and show-stopping dancing back to Saturday nights on BBC One – and we’re extremely excited to be able to welcome an audience back to the studio for this year’s shows.
“Hosted by the very talented and glamorous Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, the show will once again come live from Elstree Film and Television Studios.
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