Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special confirms first celebs

Strictly Come Dancing's festive special has signed up Rosie Ramsey, Rickie Haywood-Williams and former Coronation Street star Alexandra Mardell to compete in the ballroom this year.

Alexandra is the newest celebrity to don sequins in a bid for the Christmas glitterball, and will be paired with professional Kai Widdrington.

Speaking of her involvement in the special, she said: "I've grown up with Strictly Come Dancing, and my Mum always said she'd love to see me on the show so this really is the best Christmas present I could give her. I can't wait to get into the training room and see what festive moves I can bring to the table!"

What to read next

alexandra mardell, strictly come dancing christmas special 2022

BBC

"Fab-yule-lous presenter and podcaster" Rosie was announced as the first casting yesterday (November 30) – three years on from her husband Chris Ramsey's stint on the flagship show.

Radio 1 DJ Rickie was then confirmed as the second contestant. He said: "I have watched Strictly over the years and always said I'd be too scared to do it. But here I am ready to go for it, sequins n' all."

rickie haywoodwilliams, strictly come dancing christmas special

BBC

Rosie will be paired with professional dancer Neil Jones, while Rickie will dance with Luba Mushtuk. Three more contestants are still to be announced.

rosie ramsey, strictly come dancing christmas special

BBC

This time next year, the couple are touring their Shagged. Married. Annoyed podcast around several UK venues.

For more information and a list of dates, visit Ticketmaster or See Tickets.

For one week only, Strictly Come Dancing airs on Friday (December 2) at 8pm on BBC One, with a results show on Saturday (December 3) at 5.40pm. Spin-off show Strictly: It Takes Two airs on weeknights on BBC Two. Both shows also stream on BBC iPlayer.