Strictly Come Dancing
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Strictly Come Dancing: Bill Bailey and Caroline Quentin have ‘signed up’

Bosses are said to be pleased with the double signing

Bill Bailey and Caroline Quentin have reportedly signed up for Strictly Come Dancing.

The 55-year-old comedian and the 60-year-old actress are among the stars who will compete for the glitterball trophy on the upcoming series of the BBC dance show.

A source told The Sun newspaper’s Bizarre TV column: “The BBC are delighted with the double signing. Caroline is looking forward to the challenge and wants to get properly stuck in.”

This year’s series of the show will start later in October and will have a limited run of nine weeks rather than 12, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Strictly Come Dancing Bill Bailey
Strictly Come Dancing ‘signs’ Bill Bailey and Caroline Quentin (Credit: Splash)

Bill Bailey previously turned down Strictly Come Dancing

Bill previously revealed he had turned down the show because he thought the judges were too harsh.

He said: “I’ve been asked a couple of times. I like the idea of the dancing but it is so judgemental, which isn’t for me.

“I’d like to learn to dance without the critique. It’s pretty harsh and withering.”

However, he reportedly changed his mind this year as his live comedy performances are not going ahead, due to the global health crisis.

An insider explained: “It’s a hard time for live performers so it seemed a good chance for Bill to commit to the show.”

Strictly Come Dancing Caroline Quentin
Caroline Quentin is reportedly excited about Strictly Come Dancing

Strictly Come Dancing safety amidst coronavirus

Strictly bosses have revealed they are taking steps to protect their staff and contestants, including isolating the dancers together.

A spokesperson previously told MailOnline: “As we continue to follow the latest guidance from Public Health England and industry guidelines, we are considering isolating the dancers and key production members to enable our much-loved group numbers to continue.

Read more: Strictly Come Dancing ‘recruits BGT star as pro dancer’

“We’re incredibly proud of our professional dancers for their dedication to the show.

“[They are committed] to showcasing their love of dance to the nation.

“The safety of our cast and crew is of the utmost importance to us. Further updates will be made in due course.”

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Kaggie Hyland
Editor-in-Chief