Strictly Come Dancing may have found its first contestant for the 2023 season - and it would be a historic first for the dance show.
Reports have suggested that Loose Women star Sophie Morgan is on the cusp of signing a deal to appear on the hit BBC dance show.
The 38-year-old presenter would make history on the show as she would be the first ever wheelchair user to star on the show.
Sophie has been paralysed from the chest down since being involved in a car accident at the age of 18 - and she would follow in a line of other pioneering contestants on the show.
A source told The Sun: “She is the ideal star to take on the role.
“Plus, she is very glamorous so will look amazing in the sequined costumes.
“She already has a huge fan base from Loose Women and is a huge advocate of using her platform to promote inclusivity."
The source went on to claim that negotiations with the ITV star are still at the "very early" stages - but production of Strictly's 21st season are expected to begin in the coming months.
The Mirror has contacted representatives of both Strictly and Sophie for comment.
Last year, Paralympic swimmer Ellie Simmonds wowed the judges, live audience, and those watching from home as she took part in the series.
While in 2021, EastEnders star Rose Ayling-Ellis romped to victory on Strictly - becoming the first ever deaf contestants to take part, and going on to win.
While back in 2017, Paralympian Jonnie Peacock became the first disabled contestant to ever take part.
Taking part in ballroom dancing while in a wheelchair has a rich history in the UK stretching back to the 1960s.
A Wheelchair Dance Association was established in the 1970s with team dances were developed - while international competitions began to take place from 1977.
UK dance company Para Dance offers information and support about dancing while using a wheelchair and shares information on how to take part.
They explain: “There are two categories for the disability competitions which are: Class 1 for severe disabilities and Class 2 for those who do not have severe disabilities.
“There are also two types of competitions: Duo – where the two dancers are both in wheelchairs and Combi – where one is in a wheelchair and one is a non-disabled partner, which currently seems to be more popular.”
Strictly Come Dancing typically begins each year in September and runs until the week before Christmas.
THe 2022 judging panel consisted of original judge Craig Revel Horwood, dance legend Shirley Ballas, fan favourite Motsi Mabuse and pro-turned judge Anton Du Beke.
It is so far unconfirmed if all the judges will return for the 2023 season - and if both Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman will return to host.
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