Good Morning Britain host Richard Arnold confirmed that the 14th star to join Strictly is no other than EastEnders star James Bye.
On Friday’s programme, Richard was tasked with announcing the latest contestant to join the epic 2022 line-up for the glitzy star-studded show.
The actor who is best known for his role as Martin Fowler on the BBC soap, took GMB fans by surprise as he stepped out from the Walford tube station to greet celebrity journalist Richard.
READ MORE: Strictly announce X Factor star Fleur East as 12th celebrity to join the 2022 line-up
After being congratulated, James, 38, told Richard: “Thank you – I’ve got big shoes to fill!”
He added: “I’ve known for a long time – it’s been hard to keep a secret.
(Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
“I can tell people I’ve lied to – if I’ve lied to you, apologies. It’s not really sunk in.”
James admitted, there was one person who had been supportive from the start, as he hailed his wife Victoria, telling Richard the decision to sign up was a “team effort”.
“She is really supportive – we talked it all through and it’s a decision we have made together.
“She’s going to be part of the team,” said James.
(Image: Ash Knotek/REX/Shutterstock)
He also let slip that his pal and co-star Scott Maslen, may have been in on the news too as he confirmed that the Strictly 2010 star had been giving him some pointers already.
Given James’ co-star Rose Ayling-Ellis was responsible for lifting the Glitter Ball trophy along with her professional partner Giovanni Pernice last year, he certainly has his work cut out when it comes to following in the footsteps of past stars.
(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images)
The announcement of James joining Strictly comes after it was confirmed on Thursday 11 August that X Factor’s Fleur East and Countryfile host Hamza Yassin were also in the mix for the 20th series.
James seemed up-beat about his upcoming stint, explaining in a previous interview: “I’m not known for my shimmy or my twinkle toes – in fact my kids regularly laugh at my dad dancing but it’s an honour to be asked and I’m going to give it my best shot.
Continuing, he said : “There are some huge dance shoes to fill and it’s truly exciting to follow in the footsteps of some amazing EastEnders talent. I’d love to do everyone proud.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
