Strictly Come Dancing stars 'given dog codenames' to ensure 2022 cast remained secret

This year's cast of Strictly Come Dancing were given dog codenames to ensure the line-up remained secret, according to reports.

Fans now know who's going to be slipping into sequins in September, but when the contestants first signed up - Beeb bosses wanted to keep mum.

In a bid to keep the cast list a secret the gang were allegedly given canine codenames based on their character or appearance.

Corrie's Kym Marsh was reportedly referred to as Dalmatian because her favourite Disney film is 101 Dalmatians, while X-Factor star Fleur East was known as Husky because of her voice.

Meanwhile, EastEnders actor James Bye was Great Dane because he is 6ft 2inches tall while Loose Women’s Kaye Adams was known as Scottish Terrier.

Fleur East was apparently known as 'Husky' before the cast list was announced (Unknown)

Elsewhere, Arsenal legend Tony Adams, was called Greyhound and Bros star Matt Goss was American Bulldog -because he lives in the States, reports the Daily Star.

The rest of the cast and their codenames were Will Mellor - Jack Russell- radio and TV presenter Richie Anderson - Chow Chow) - comic Jayde Adams - Chihuahua - and comedy actress Ellie Taylor - Whippet .

Wildlife cameraman Hamza Yassin was apparently known as Cocker Spaniel, BGT singer Molly Rainfor - Poodle and TV presenter Helen Skelton - Beagle.

Will was referred to as 'Jack Russell' (BBC)

The Mirror has contacted the BBC for comment.

Fans can't wait for the news series to start and are, by-and-large, impressed with the eclectic line-up.

However, some have pointed out a potential problem.

Fans have spotted a potential problem with the line-up (PA)

Not only are there three contestants with the same surname – Kaye Adams, Tony Adams and Jayde Adams – but there are two people with the same first name in the cast – Ellie Simmonds and Ellie Taylor.

Taking to Twitter to respond to the line-up, one fan wrote: “That's 3 celebs with the surname Adams this is going to get very confusing,” alongside a string of crying laughing emojis.

While another joked: “Did the booker get bored on the first tab of the talent list!??! Also two Ellies. Come on guys. Seriously - who’s next? Bryan? Amy? Morticia?”

Helen was the last contestant to be confirmed (PA)

After pro dancers Oti Mabuse and Aljaz Skorjanec quit the show earlier this year, the BBC show announced that four new professionals would be taking to the stage.

European cup winner Vito Coppola , Chinese National Champion Carlos Gu , former Under 21 British National Champion Lauren Oakley and Latin dance champion Michelle Tsiakkas will all be hoping to waltz off with the Glitterball trophy.