We get it, we’re barely at the end of spring, so it might feel a little strange to already be looking ahead to Strictly Come Dancing, which so many of us associate with cosy winter nights in and the lead-up to Christmas.
However, it’s worth remembering that Strictly runs for months at a time – meaning we’re actually not as far off this year’s line-up announcement as you might think.
In fact, rumours about which celebrities will be competing in the Strictly ballroom this year have already been swirling around, with everyone from the world of TV, music and even a few members of the aristocracy tipped to be taking part.
Here’s a quick guide to all the rumoured stars so far…
Stacey Solomon
After initially shooting to fame on the sixth season of The X Factor, Stacey Solomon won over a legion of new fans when she competed on I’m A Celebrity in 2010, going on to be crowned its champion.
These days, she’s best known as a TV presenter and online influencer, especially with regard to family life, crafting and, indeed, tidying up.
In April, The Sun claimed that the former Loose Women panellist had already been approached by Strictly bosses, having previously shared her love of the show.
Tom Parker Bowles
Yes, you read that correctly. Tom Parker Bowles, son of Camilla, the Queen, is reportedly in the running to sign up for Strictly.
The foodie and cookbook writer is the son of Camilla – an apparently Strictly fanatic – and her first husband Andrew Parker Bowles.
Already a regular on MasterChef, The Mirror claimed in May that Tom may be expanding his reality TV repertoire.
Tom was apparently approached last year about a Strictly spot, only for this not to come to fruition, so producers now have him at the “top of their wishlist”, the tabloid’s “Strictly source” claimed.
Georgia Toffolo
In that same Mirror piece, it was reported that former Made In Chelsea cast member and I’m A Celebrity winner Georgia Toffolo could be making a reality TV comeback.
Citing their “insiders”, the outlet claimed that Georgia was already “in talks” about a spot on this year’s line-up.
Craig Rowe
Known for his appearances on shows like This Morning and A Place In The Sun, Craig Rowe hinted earlier this year that Strictly could be on the horizon for him.
We’ve spoken to Strictly and nothing’s happened yet, but talks are very much happening,” he told The Sun.
Craig added: “I’d like nothing better than the training as well to put me through my paces.”
Hmmm... we’re pretty sure those talks are supposed to be private, Craig... so maybe don’t go splashing out on dancing shoes just yet...
Ashley Cain
Originally known for playing football for clubs like Coventry City, Ashley Cain later embarked on a second career as a reality star with appearances on shows like Ex On The Beach and MTV’s The Challenge.
Following the death of his eight-month-old daughter Azaylia in 2021, Ashley has become a charity campaigner and advocate for children’s cancer research, and earlier this year began presenting the BBC documentary Into The Danger Zone, which explored different issues affecting young men in different countries around the world.
According to The Mirror, it’s this work that’s caught the eye of Strictly bosses, citing “insiders” who say he’s already on producers’ longlist of potential contestants, which will be whittled down from “around 30 names” to just 15 as the new series gets closer.
Thomas Skinner
Thomas Skinner first rose to prominence on the 15th season of The Apprentice in 2019.
While he may not have impressed Alan Sugar, eventually becoming the ninth candidate to be fired, he did get a rare “keep in touch” from the entrepreneur on his way out the door – and he’s rumoured to be returning for the show’s upcoming celebrity special.
On top of this, Thomas – who regularly makes appearances in debates for shows like Good Morning Britain, having also competed on Celebrity MasterChef – was reported by The Sun in March to have already signed up for Strictly this year.
Angellica Bell
Towards the end of last year, the Daily Mail reported that Strictly fans were speculating that children’s TV legend Angellica Bell would be competing on the show in 2025, after apparently piecing together certain bits of evidence on social media.
It’s worth pointing out, though, that this was before she was announced to be on ITV’s second season of Celebrity Big Brother earlier in the spring – so this is one rumour we definitely wouldn’t get too excited about.
