Jacqui Smith has been confirmed for ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.
The former Home Secretary and political broadcaster was announced as the twelfth and final celebrity contestant for the upcoming series of the BBC’s Latin and ballroom competition.
She said in a statement: "I was speechless with excitement at being asked to join ‘Strictly’ – and that’s very rare for me.
"Fifty years ago, I got a bronze medal for Scottish Highland Dancing and it feels about time to return to dancing.
"I couldn’t be in better hands with the Strictly team and I’m going to throw myself into the challenge. Watch out!"
The news was confirmed on Friday afternoon (04.09.20) on BBC Radio 2’s ‘Steve Wright Show’, and the former politician is excited to get on the dance floor.
Jacqui is best known for her spell as the UK’s first female Home Secretary in 2007, while she was become a regular political commentator on TV and radio as well as being the chair of both the largest NHS trust in England in Birmingham, and a Children’s Trust in Sandwell.
She rounds off this year’s line-up after the likes of singer HRVY, ‘EastEnders’ actress Maisie Smith and ‘Made In Chelsea’ star Jamie Laing have been confirmed.
Comedian Bill Bailey, BBC Radio 1 presenter Clara Amfo, ex-NFL star Jason Bell and Invictus Games medallist JJ Chalmers are also set to compete.
Rounding off this year’s contestants are ‘Good Morning Britain’ presenter Ranvir Singh, boxer Nicola Adams, The Wanted singer Max George and actress Caroline Quentin.
This year’s series of the show has been delayed until October and will have a limited run of nine weeks rather than 12, due to the coronavirus pandemic.