This year’s Strictly line-up is an absolute corker, featuring the likes of Love Island’s Tasha Ghouri, TOWIE legend Pete Wicks and DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles.
It’s also not uncommon for an EastEnders star to take to the ballroom floor and this year that honour goes to Jamie Borthwick, who has played Jay Brown since 2006.
It’s no secret that taking part in Strictly is demanding and if Jamie does well in the competition, he could be in training for several weeks – meaning he might not have time for his day job.
Last year, Bobby Brazier made it all the way to the Strictly 2023 final after bowing out of his role as Freddie Slater for a short stint. So, does this mean that we can expect Jay to wave goodbye to Walford later this year?
Actually, no. EastEnders fans can breathe a sigh of relief as Jamie has confirmed that he will still be filming the iconic BBC soap alongside Strictly.
'No, I’m not taking a break. I’m still there, so I’m doing both shows, but we’re lucky [because] EastEnders is just filmed literally over the road,' he explained.
'I ain’t got far to go and I’ve just budgeted that I’m going to be a bit NA for the next however long. I’m used to it all, I’ve been doing it a long time so it doesn’t scare me.'
Speaking about the advice he’s received from his EastEnders co-stars who have done Strictly before, Jamie said, 'Scott Maslen, who did it back in 2010, he just told me to eat everything.
'Everyone who’s done it has just said it’s a fantastic experience and just enjoy because it’s over as soon as it begind so try and soak up every single second.'
Jamie might not need any advice though as he competed in the Strictly 2023 Christmas special with pro dancer Nancy Xu and was crowned the winner.
When asked if he’s remembered any tips and tricks, he replied, 'I’ll be honest, it feels like so much has happened since then. I’ve kind of forgot everything, so I’m hopoing it will be like riding a bike and it will all come back.'
Who is Jamie Borthwick's Strictly partner?
The EastEnders star will be dancing alongside Michelle Tsiakkas on this year's Strictly.
The Strictly Come Dancing 2024 launch show will air on Saturday 14th September at 7:20pm on BBC One & BBC iPlayer.