Repair Shop frontman Jay Blades and First Dates maitre’d Fred Sirieix are the first names unveiled for the Strictly Christmas special.
The two celebrities were announced on Strictly spin-off It Takes Two by host Rylan Clark, who teased viewers with a few major clues ahead of the official reveal.
Fred was represented by a red rose, while Jay’s platter featured some sandpaper and construction materials.
The festive show will be back after being axed last year as Covid restrictions made it impossible to film.
Furniture restorer Jay has been chased by the BBC for years to do Strictly but was never available. However, taking a few days out to learn a routine for the Christmas show proved just the ticket.
(Image: C4)
He explained: “I was always too busy but I have always wanted to learn how to dance. That’s one of the greatest achievements.”
Jay will be partnered with professional dancer Luba Mushtuk.
Speaking on the show via video link, Jay explained: “It’s probably one of the things I love most, which is challenging myself to do something I’ve never done before.
(Image: BBC / Ricochet / Nicky Johnston)
“I can do a dad dance – but I’ll just dive in there and let’s have a go!”
Another famous face joining Jay in the line-up will be Fred Sirieix, and the First Dates star will be dancing with Dianne Buswell.
Dianne was partnered with comedian Robert Webb in the main show, until he had to quit due to health reasons after undergoing open heart surgery.
Fred admits he does not have much rhythm and said: “I’m a bit of a dad dancer. I don’t have any shame. I will give it a good crack.”
(Image: @diannebuswell)
Dianne admitted on It Takes Two that Fred has been making her laugh “every second of every day”, explaining: “It’s been great.”
Fred also addressed the cancellation of his hit cooking show with celebrity chefs Gordon Ramsay and Gino D’Acampo, explaining: “It’s like a cultural exchange. I was supposed to go to Australia with Gordon and Gino, but unfortunately it was cancelled.”
Rylan joked of his Aussie partner Dianne: “So we’ve brought Australia to you!”
Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday at 6:45pm on BBC One
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
