Nicola Adams is set to become part of Strictly Come Dancing’s first ever same-sex pairing after the Olympic boxer was confirmed for the new series of the BBC dance show.
The double Olympic gold medallist is the sixth celebrity contestant confirmed for the 18th series, which will return in the autumn.
Speaking about being signed up for the new series, Nicola said: “I’m really excited to be joining this year’s incredible line-up for Strictly Come Dancing. I’m a huge fan of the show and am thrilled to be part of something that holds such a special place in so many people’s hearts.
“People might know me from work in the ring, but I’ll be every bit as passionate and dedicated on the dance-floor too.”
Nicola added: “I also wanted to thank the BBC for supporting me and making me the first ever all female-pairing; and it’s amazing to be a part of the movement for change, diversity and breaking boundaries in the entertainment industry.”
The boxer, who won gold at both the London 2012 Olympics and Rio 2016, is dating Ella Baig and has been praised as an LGBTQ role model.
Also confirmed for this year’s series are radio and TV presenter Clara Amfo, Good Morning Britain host Ranvir Singh, former Wanted singer Max George, Jonathan Creek actress Caroline Quentin and former NFL player Jason Bell.
The show will be shorter this year because of precautions surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.
Bruno Tonioli will be missing from the judging panel for Saturday night shows when the series returns later this year because he is in Los Angeles, where he is on the panel for the US version of the show, Dancing With The Stars, and will not be able to travel back and forth.
However, he will be involved remotely in the Sunday night results show each week and will return to the show full-time towards the end of the series.
Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood are all expected to return to their judging roles.
The show would usually return at the end of September, with the final just before Christmas, but its 2020 launch is expected to be slightly delayed.