Rhys Stephenson has been confirmed for 'Strictly Come Dancing'.
Rhys Stephenson
The CBBC star - who has worked on the likes of 'Blue Peter' and 'Saturday Mash-Up!' - is the fifth celebrity to be announced for the upcoming 19th series, which airs later this year.
He said in a statement: "I am BUZZING to be a part of 'Strictly Come Dancing' 2021.
"I have dreamt about being on this show, and I know for a fact that it is going to exceed every expectation.
"I cannot wait to experience it all: the costumes, the orchestra, even Craig’s glare! I am READY!”
The news was first revealed on 'Newsround' on Friday (06.08.21), and the actor and children's TV presenter joins the likes of Tom Fletcher, Robert Webb and AJ Odudu on the lineup.
They will be joined by former 'Great British Bake Off' winner John Whaite, who will make history by being part of the show's first-ever all-male partnership.
The baking champion - who triumphed in 2012's third series of the show - is delighted to be representing the LGBTQ+ community on the dance floor, and he hopes being part of the programme's first all-male partnership will help and inspire younger viewers.
He said: "It's an honour. When they asked me if I'd be interested I just bit their hand off.
"Because to do that and represent the LGBTQ+ community is one thing, but also just to see two men or two women dancing together it's not just about sexuality, it's about intimacy and respect.
"I think that's going to be such a great thing in our culture, where men are conditioned not to open up and not to be emotional.
"I think it might help to combat that.
"So, I'm excited on so many levels to be doing the first all-male partnership. It's incredible, it really is."
There will also be a new panel this year, with former pro Anton Du Beke replacing Bruno Tonioli as a judge alongside Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Shirley Ballas.
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