First look at Strictly Come Dancing as filming begins for 2026 series
Strictly season is upon us! 🪩
It's time to dust off those feather boas and sequined dresses, as the new era of Strictly Come Dancing officially gets underway later this month, with new hosts Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe.
Filming for the 2026 series officially kicked off on Wednesday 9th September, as the launch show was recorded at Elstree Film Studios in London.
Although fans have to wait until Saturday 19th September for the pre-recorded launch show to land on tele, bosses have shared some glitzy first look photos of this year's celebs!
Check out the new Strictly 2026 photos below:
Strictly Come Dancing 2026 cast
The Strictly Come Dancing 2026 contestants, professional dancers, hosts and judges
Strictly Come Dancing hosts Johannes Radebe, Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe
Will Best
Lacey Turner
Bethany Antonia
Jaime Winstone
Melanie Walters
Cach Mercer
Dani Dyer
John Nellis
Dame Sarah Storey
Shaun Wright-Phillips
Tabby Stoecker
Delta Goodrem
Lawrence Robb
Graeme Hall
Chris Appleton
Strictly Come Dancing hosts Johannes Radebe, Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe
Strictly Come Dancing hosts Johannes Radebe, Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe
READ MORE: New Strictly hosts reveal how the three-presenter format will work
When does Strictly start?
Despite some fears that Strictly may not return in 2026, following the departure of hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, and five of the show's well-known professional dancers, the BBC announced earlier this year that Strictly 2026 would happen!
After recording dates were announced, the BBC have now confirmed the pre-recorded launch show will air on Saturday 19th September.
Then, from Saturday 26th September, live shows will air every Saturday night, with the pre-recorded results show set to air every Sunday evening.
READ MORE: Your ultimate guide to Strictly Come Dancing 2026
Author: Alex Ross
Alex Ross is a Digital Content Editor across Rayo brands, including the Hits Radio Network, Greatest Hits Radio, KISS, Cool FM and Magic Radio. After beginning her career as a Marketing Intern with Bauer Media in 2016, she transitioned into digital editorial and has spent the past decade creating engaging content for millions of readers. Whether it’s reality shows, sitcoms, gritty crime dramas or hard-hitting documentaries, Alex is an expert in all things TV, as well as knowing the ins and outs of celebrities.