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Strictly reveals three new dancers joining this year’s series

It's all change on TV's glitteriest new show

BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing will be back on our screens later this year.

It was revealed last month that British ballroom dancer Shirley Ballas would be replacing Len Goodman’s head judge position on the show.

Now it’s been announced that three brand new professional dancers will be joining the line-up for the new series.

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First up is Dianne Buswell, 28, from Australia.

The dancer appeared on Dancing with the Stars Australia and revealed she feels being on Strictly is an “honour”.

She said: “What an honour it is to be a part of Strictly Come Dancing.

“Words can’t describe how excited I am to take on this amazing challenge and give it my everything.

“See you on the dance floor.”

The second dancer to take to the dance floor is Nadiya Bychkova, 28, from Ukraine.

Nadiya has taken part in the Bosnian version of Strictly and landing the stint has left her feeling “extremely happy”.

She said: “I’m extremely happy to be joining the Strictly Come Dancing family this year.

“One of my biggest dreams is to be part of this great show and I can’t wait to get started.”

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Completing the trio is Amy Dowden, 26, from Wales.

Amy is one of the highest-ranking Ballroom and Latin American professional dancers in the UK.

Speaking about joining the show she said: “Becoming a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing has made my wildest dreams come true, it does not feel real.

“I have always been proud of my Welsh roots and feel so honoured to be the first Welsh professional dancer on the most loved show on TV.”

As these newbies are joining the series it means Joanne Clifton and Oksana Platero will be leaving the show.

Natalia Lowe is also not returning which she previously announced.

Louise Rainbow, Executive Producer, Strictly Come Dancing said: “We’re delighted with our line-up of pros for this year’s series. They are all brilliant dancers and wonderful teachers and Strictly is so lucky to have them.

“I would like to thank Natalie, Joanne and Oksana for their hard work and the amazing contribution they have made to the show and wish them all well for the future.”

Meanwhile Shirley will be joined by judges by Bruno Tonioli, Craig Revel Horwood and Darcey Bussell as they stay on for another year.

So far a number of famous faces have reportedly signed up to the show.

Joan Collins was reportedly approached by Strictly bosses as well as former Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt and ex-EastEnders star Samantha Womack.

However the line-up has not been confirmed.


Rebecca Carter
Associate Editor (News)