Last week we gave a run down on the celebs who will grace the floor in this year’s Strictly Come Dancing and they’re an exciting bunch from the worlds of sport, music, television and politics.
The final group of contestants was announced last night and we’re giving three cheers for bronze medal hero, Greg Rutherford.
Speaking on The One Show, Greg said: "I’m absolutely terrified about this.
"This is something I’ve never done. I’ve never danced a step in my life.
"I train obviously to run in a straight line and jump in a sand pit which is a stupid, niche physical activity as it is.
"I’m hoping I get a very good partner who can teach me a lot because truly I have no idea what I’m doing in this."
Strictly bosses have thrown another curve ball, revealing 70-year-old Lesley Joseph will appear as the show’s oldest-ever female contestant. The stunning actress is best known for playing Dorien Green in Birds of a Feather.
Speaking to the Sun about her potential partners, Lesley said: "I think they’re all fantastic.
"I love Kevin [Clifton]. Not saying I want to be partnered with him, but I love Kevin. They’re all fantastic.
"The anticipation of it is the most frightening thing because you just think you’re going to be stretched.
"But I know as soon as I start I’m going to have the time of my life."
Eastenders fans will be thrilled to hear that Tameka Empson made the cut.
She said: "It’s just been so hard trying to keep the secret.
"I have been avoiding every group conversation, I’ve been avoiding telephone calls. It’s just mad.
"I think the ballroom I’m going to have to work on. I like it quite kick."
Judge Rinder, 38, of reality court show fame is the final man to join the ranks.
He said: "The only thing I knew would make my grandmother more proud than watching my TV courtroom was to see me dressed up in white tie doing the Foxtrot.
"So although I suspect the latter will be far more difficult, I am doing Strictly Come Dancing for her.
"No doubt the judges will be as fair, kind and thoughtful as me (especially the charming Craig Revel Horwood). I shall await their verdicts."
Much has been said about the number of performing arts trained stars in this year’s line-up, including Will Young, Louise Redknapp and ex-Hollyoaks heartthrob, Danny Mac.
But with the likes of Lesley Joseph and Naga Munchetty in the wings, there’s a chance that on-screen charisma will win over the experienced dancing feet.
The 14th series of Strictly Come Dancing returns on BBC1 this September 3.
The full line-up:
-
Tameka Empson
-
Greg Rutherford
-
Lesley Joseph
-
Ed Balls
-
Naga Munchetty
-
Danny Mac
-
Will Young
-
Judge Robert Rinder
-
Melvin Odoom
-
Ore Oduba
-
Daisy Lowe
-
Laura Whitmore
-
Anastacia
-
Claudia Fragapane
-
Ellie Goulding
Who are you tipping to win? Let us know via Facebook and Twitter (@CloserOnline).