Reverend Richard Coles has become the fifth celebrity to join this year’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ line up.
The Church of England priest – who is now vicar of Finedon in Northamptonshire – has been confirmed for the forthcoming series of the ballroom and latin show, which kicks off this autumn, and has admitted he can’t wait to get stuck in to learning the routines – even though he struggles with pains in his knees.
He said: "Cometh the hour, cometh the overweight Vicar with arthritis in his knees."
The news comes just a day after ‘Emmerdale’ actress Gemma Atkinson revealed she’d signed up to the programme but, rather than stressing over the fancy footwork, she was concerned about the costumes.
She said: "I dress like a 14-year-old boy in work, I am a trackies and converse kind of girl, but I have been wearing stilettos around my house. I don’t know how women do it all the time. I am not graceful, my mum says I’m like a baby elephant. I’m a big lass, I’m 5’9”. I’m going to challenge my inner feminine side. I will be graceful, once they give me a dancer, they are so big and strong and they are going to be amazing. I am going to embrace it, make the most of it, and enjoy it."
The other celebrities on the line up so far include This Morning’s Ruth Lansgford, Mollie King and EastEnders’ Davood Ghadami but more are expected to be announced over the coming weeks.
Although some stars are yet to sign on the dotted line, one thing’s for certain, there will be plenty of fireworks when the show returns this autumn as the judging panel and troupe of professionals have been given a huge shake up recently.
The forthcoming series will see legendary choreographer Shirley Ballas claim Len Goodman’s Head Judge seat following his shock departure at the end of last year and, although the fellow panelists – Darcey Bussell, Craig Revel Horwood and Bruno Tonioli – are excited to have her on board, they’re convinced she’ll stand her ground.
Reverend Richard Coles joins Strictly Come Dancing
