It is never too early to start getting excited for the next series of Strictly Come Dancing – especially when such exciting names are being touted.
A new report claims bosses are already lining up contestants for the autumn show, and it includes Atomic Kitten star Natasha Hamilton and Boyzone’s Keith Duffy!
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According to The Mirror, the singers are part of the BBC’s wish list of celebs, which also includes presenter Rylan Clark-Neal, newsreader Huw Edwards and documentary maker Louis Theroux.
An insider said: “There are a lot of names in the mix for this year’s show and Keith and Natasha are on the list. Bosses feel they could be a ratings hit.”
Keith, 44, has been performing in recent weeks for Boyzone’s 25th Anniversary on tour, alongside Ronan Keating, Mikey Graham and Shane Lynch. He’s also known as an actor after starring in Coronation Street.
Natasha, 36, joined Atomic Kitten in 1999. She entered the Celebrity Big Brother house in 2015, finishing in third place. The mum-of-four is also currently in training as a beauty therapist.
It follows the news that radio DJ Chris Evans, 52, might not be able to join the new line-up – after initially confirming he was taking part.
He claimed during an interview that he has a knee injury that might ruin his chances.
Call The Midwife actress Laura Main has also hinted she’ll be joining.
Lib Dem leader Vince Cable – who was a viewer favourite on the 2010 Christmas special – has also been asked, but ruled himself out.
He said: “Love the show but I am nine years older than when I last appeared on the Xmas show, and while this is OK for ballroom it isn’t for Latin. I keep my weekly dancing lessons going as best I can. But that may disqualify me as not being a complete beginner.”
The BBC also revealed which professional dancers would be returning – and who wouldn’t – earlier this month.
Last year’s show was won by BBC3 documentary maker Stacey Dooley and her dance partner Kevin Clifton.
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