BBC bosses are reportedly eyeing two EastEnders stars for the 2023 series of Strictly Come Dancing, which is expected to air this September.
Strictly Come Dancing, the popular dance competition television series, continues to captivate audiences with its dazzling routines, celebrity contestants, and passionate performances. As anticipation builds for the upcoming series, fans and enthusiasts eagerly await the announcement of the star-studded lineup.
From EastEnders to Strictly
Strictly Come Dancing has a history of welcoming actors from EastEnders onto its glittering dance floor, where they have showcased their versatility. In the 2022 season, James Bye, known for his portrayal of Martin Fowler in EastEnders, wowed viewers with his fancy footwork alongside professional dancer Amy Dowden.
The 2021 season of Strictly Come Dancing proved to be a monumental one for EastEnders, as actress Rose Ayling-Ellis made history by becoming the first deaf contestant on the show. Rose, who played the character Frankie Lewis in EastEnders, delivered captivating performances week after week, showcasing her determination, charisma, and remarkable dance skills. Paired with professional dancer Giovanni Pernice, Rose's dedication paid off as she triumphantly lifted the glitterball trophy.
2023 lineup will feature two EastEnders stars
According to Birmingham Mail, the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing is generating excitement among fans, as BBC bosses reportedly have their sights set on two EastEnders stars to join the cast. The popular dance competition has a history of featuring actors from the iconic British soap, and this year looks set to continue the tradition with the potential addition of Bobby Brazier and Priya Davdra.
One of the EastEnders stars rumored to be joining Strictly Come Dancing is Bobby Brazier, known for his role as Freddie Slater in the long-running BBC One soap.
Bobby, the son of the late Jade Goody and Jeff Brazier, made his debut on EastEnders in September 2022 and has quickly gained popularity among viewers. An insider told the outlet:
'Bobby is the dream signing for Strictly — he’s a young heart-throb who comes with a huge fanbase. He also has a very personal backstory and there’s so much love out there for Jade. There’s a few last-minute details to sort but the talks are in final stages.'
Another name linked to the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing is Priya Davdra, who portrayed the character Iqra Ahmed on EastEnders for three years. Priya's portrayal of Iqra, the first female gay Muslim character in the soap's history, earned her recognition and praise. Her departure from EastEnders in January 2022 opened up new opportunities, and now the rumors suggest she may be gracing the Strictly ballroom. The source said:
'Priya was singled out as a target for the casting team early in the process and they were keen. She is young, glamorous and would be a great fit for the show.'
The potential addition of Bobby and Priya to the Strictly lineup would continue the legacy of EastEnders legends on the show.
When will Strictly 2023 return?
According to What To Watch, Strictly Come Dancing, whose former contestant Fiona Phillips is sadly struggling with Alzheimer's, is set to return to BBC One in the autumn, bringing back the beloved judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, and Motsi Mabuse, as well as the charismatic Anton du Beke as the latest addition to the judging panel.
The lineup of celebrity contestants will be revealed gradually throughout July, building anticipation for the new season. The show's hosts, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, will once again guide viewers through the exciting dance performances and dramatic eliminations.
Read more:
⋙ Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas teases 2023 line-up will be the best ever
⋙ Gordon Ramsay’s daughter Holly confirms relationship with Strictly star
⋙ EastEnders: This famous actor teases his return to Albert Square
⋙ Jade Goody's son Bobby Brazier lands acting debut role in EastEnders
