BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Katya Jones says 'I am ready' after revealing new major move

Katya Jones has told fans she's 'ready' for what's ahead after it was recently confirmed she'd be returning to Strictly Come Dancing for a 10th year.

The dancer was named alongside the cast of the BBC One dance contest's pro-line up for the 2025 series, which will kick off this Autumn.

Alongside Katya, returning for series 23 are Dianne Buswell, Nadiya Bychkova, Amy Dowden, Karen Hauer, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, Jowita Przystal, Johannes Radebe, Aljaž Škorjanec, Kai Widdrington, Nancy Xu, Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley, Michelle Tsiakkas and Vito Coppola.

The BBC also revealed last week that two brand new professional dancers will also be joining the lin-up, with the new pros set to be revealed closer to the return of the show.

After the news was confirmed, Katya took to her Instagram page with a post that featured a montage of photos of herself on the show and said she had "Strictly Confession" to make and that included the "quiet promises" she made to herself "to stay grounded.

The first came from my very first BBC briefing, where I learned something that’s stayed with me ever since: Strictly is an entertainment show with dance at its heart. I made it my mission never to lose sight of that simple truth," Katya began.

Her second rule was to always be her "true, authentic self... because performing is one thing, but pretending to be someone you’re not is exhausting, and it doesn’t last."Katya continue: "And third — perhaps most importantly — I told myself that the moment I stopped loving this job, would be the moment I walk away. This role demands passion, energy, and an all-in commitment. You simply can’t do it half-heartedly.

"Each year when the producers ask if I’d like to return, I pause and ask myself: Are you still in love with it? And every single time, the answer has been a firm YES. This year was no different. Nothing fulfils me quite like this 'job'.

Katya will be returning to Strictly for her 10th year(Image: Getty Images)

"It is a true privilege to be part of something that brings joy to so many. To help light up Saturday nights, to be part of a show that’s become such a cherished part of the nation’s heart — it means the world. Happy 10th anniversary, Strictly. I can confess - I am still totally head over heels for you."

Since then, Katya has returned to social media and shared a number of images and behind-the-scenes videos of her recent covershoot for Fabulous magazine.

It was alongside one of her latest post that the star wrote: "Life is not always black and white, but this moment was. A few words from my @fabulousmag interview with @kellyallen01. I’m proud of the woman I am today. A big year ahead. And I am ready. P.S. Does anyone even read posts now or do we only look at pictures?"

And fans were quick to respond. @ladyvaletta said: "I read!!! I love words!!! Please keep giving us words as well as amazing images!" @noffeeuk commented: "Very interesting- exciting years ahead!" @emma.newell wrote: "I read your posts! Amazing times ahead Katya."

Many, however, were quick to show their support for Katya's major move as she announced she will be acting as a guest judge on Dancing With The Stars in Belgium