We can hear the iconic theme music now and that can only mean Strictly Come Dancing is closer to returning to our screens after a memorable 2021 series. And with just weeks to go until the launch episode is filmed, the first contestant of Strictly 2022 has been revealed.
Will Mellor is the first big name to sign up for the BBC One dance contest. His decision to sign on the dotted line was revealed on Thursday (August 4) on BBC Breakfast. The news programme's hosts Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt excitedly welcomed Will, who made his name as part of the cast of Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps, onto the show to confirm his latest TV role.
The actor, 46, starred as Gaz in cult Noughties sitcom Two Pints Of Lager And A Packet Of Crisps, also landing roles in the likes of Line Of Duty and Broadchurch. More recently, he joined the cast Coronation Street in 2021 as "out-and-out baddie", drugs lord Harvey, and also starred in Hollyoaks in the early days of his career.
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Will said in a statement: "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!"
Appearing live on the BBC Breakfast sofa, the actor was quickly probed about his dance skills and whether he has any experience: "I dance in the kitchen when there’s music on… nothing at all like this!" he replied.
The former soap star also added more to his reasons for doing the show, with a family tragedy that swayed him into immediately saying yes when asked to take part this year. Will told Naga and Charlie: "The training side of it is one of the reasons why I’m doing it.
My mindset completely changed a while back and I just thought I’ve got to start doing things that frighten me a little bit and step out of your comfort zone, and that’s what’s life is about. And when I got the phone call for this I just said ‘yes, I’m going to do it’.
“Also I lost my dad in 2020 and I just thought from then I’ve just got to grab life and I’ve got to do things and I’ve got to create new memories and my mindset changed, and that’s sort of one of the reasons why."
He also added: "It’s my mum’s favourite show so she’s had it really tough over the last few years so I thought we’ll do this…"
The announcement was made on BBC Breakfast ahead of the 20th series, with audiences also returning to the studio this year and the launch show scheduled to be recorded on September 7.
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