Strictly Come Dancing is set to return with its 2021 series this autumn – but who is rumoured to be in the line-up?
A host of famous faces have taken to the Strictly Come Dancing dance floor over the years.
And, with the launch show creeping ever closer, speculation is hotting up about who’ll be joining the line-up.
A trio of new names are supposedly now in the frame, with Peter Crouch, Gordon Ramsay’s daughter Tilly and ex rugby ace Ugo Monye set to trip the light fantastic in the 2021 series.
Strictly Come Dancing 2021: Matilda Ramsay ‘signs up’
According to The Sun, BBC bosses are thrilled that 19-year-old Tilly has signed up for the show – especially after she had to pull out last year.
Strictly bosses are said to be “desperate” to attract more young fans to the show and Tilly – a chef and influencer – could prove just the ticket.
Read more: Strictly announces new professionals for 2021 series
“It will be great to have Gordon sitting in the audience supporting as well, though he’s bound to scare off any pros hoping for a Strictly romance,” an insider quipped.
It’s thought Tilly is “really excited” about the show and “can’t wait to throw herself into rehearsals”.
Rugby ace Ugo Monye
Ugo – who is one of the new A Question of Sport captains – was apparently persuaded to sign up by his pal Jamie Laing, who appeared last year.
According to The Sun, he “isn’t afraid of a challenge” given that he isn’t known for his dancing.
Read more: Bradley Walsh turned down Strictly and here’s why he’ll NEVER do it
One man who is known for his though is former footballer Peter Crouch.
Yes, the man behind the robot goal celebration is apparently signing up for Strictly Come Dancing 2021.
His wife Abbey Clancy won the 11th series of the show back in 2013, so the super-tall sportsman most definitely has some hype to live up to!
Other names in the Strictly frame
A source told The Sun BBC weatherman Tomasz Schafernaker is top of the Strictly Wishlist.
“Strictly producers have had him in their sights for several years but he’s now high up on their wish-list of contenders for the 2021 series.
“It seemed apt to target him this year as he’s become one of the most-watched figures during lockdown as his growing mane of hair has been a talking point.
“It’s just the latest of several controversies and gaffes which only seem to make Tomasz more popular with viewers.”
A few weeks ago, bookies announced odds had shortened on Line of Duty star Vicky McClure to join the show.
Newlywed Carrie Symonds is another name in the frame.
A source said: “BBC bosses plan their line-up from the start of the year and Carrie was one of the earliest names on their list.
“Strictly has become the number one show for so many political figures and Carrie is one of the biggest names – not only as Boris’s better half but as a campaigner and activist in her own right.
“The offer to take part in the next series is there if she wants to take it.”
Contracts are usually signed in the summer, so it looks as if it’s a case of watch this space!
Gogglebox star Tom Malone Jr in the frame for Strictly
Former Gogglebox favourite Tom Malone Jr is also another name the BBC wants to sign.
He left the show to “explore new opportunities”, so could one of those be Strictly?
Tom has been a professional breakdancer since he was 14, and has said he’d love to do the show.
From the weather to the waltz for Alex Beresford?
GMB weatherman Alex Beresford is another who could be tipping the light fantastic this autumn if rumours are to be believed.
The Beeb has apparently been keen to sign the hunk since his stint on Dancing on Ice in 2018.
And, since his Piers Morgan put-down, his star is rapidly rising.
Addressing rumours on social media, he recently said: “Do I need to brush up on my 2 step and shuffle?”
Strictly Come Dancing 2021: Who else is in the frame?
Line Of Duty star Gregory Piper has also been “shortlisted” to take part .
It’s claimed that producers see him as a “dream signing”.
Meanwhile, Chris Witty is reportedly “top of the list” for the reality series.
The BBC apparently want the Chief Medical Officer in sequins following his fame as a “pandemic hero”.
Paddy McGuinness’ stunning wife Christine is also tipped to take part.
Furthermore, footballer and father-of-four Rio Ferdinand is also in a mix.
Meanwhile, Death in Paradise star Ralf Little is open to taking part.
Strictly Come Dancing will be returning later this year with presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman at the helm.
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