Strictly Come Dancing reveals Radio 1 star as second celeb for Christmas special
STRICTLY Come Dancing has revealed Radio One DJ Rickie Haywood-Williams will star in its Christmas special.
The broadcasting star, 42, will be put through his paces by pro dancer Luba Mushtuk for the festive competition.
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 is the second name to be announced after podcast star Rosie Ramsey.
The former redcoat, who is the wife of comedian Chris Ramsey, said: “I am thrilled to be dancing in this year’s Strictly Christmas special!
“After watching my husband Chris compete a few years ago, I’ve been desperate to get on that dance floor myself!
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“I also absolutely LOVE Christmas, and my partner Neil is lovely, so this is just perfect. Best. Christmas. Ever!”
In total six celebs will battle it out in the ballroom for festive Glitterball glory.
Judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Shirley Ballas will all return.
Rickie previously presented the KISS FM breakfast show for 10 years before moving to the BBC, where he currently presents BBC Radio 1’s iconic Live Lounge show with Melvin Odoom and Charlie Hedges.
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He’ll be able to ask best pal Melvin for tips, given he starred in the 2016 series with Janette Manrara.
In September Rickie became a dad again and will need to balance cha-cha-changing nappies with learning his routines.
Last year’s Christmas special was won by pop star Anne-Marie, who was paired with Graziano di Prima.
They scored a perfect 40 for their cha cha.
Anne-Marie said at the time: “I cannot believe it. I’m so proud and so happy for this opportunity to dance. It brought out a side of me I hadn’t seen in a long time. Thanks to Graz and the whole team. You have made my Christmas so special.”
Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Christmas Day.
