Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Strictly Come Dancing 2017: Celebrity chef Simon Rimmer confirmed as contestant for next series

'I am so excited, terrified and proud to be invited'

Jack Shepherd
Sunday 13 August 2017 12:44 BST
Comments
Simon Rimmer
Simon Rimmer (Getty)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Another celebrity set to compete for this year's Strictly Come Dancing trophy has been announced by the BBC.

Presenter and TV chef Simon Rimmer will be donning the sequins joining fellow celebrities This Morning presenter Ruth Langsford, The Saturdays singer Mollie King, Hollyoaks' Gemma Atkinson, and EastEnders actor Davood Ghadami. Former chart-topper Reverend Richard Coles and Holby City star Joe McFadden have also been announced for the 2017 line-up.

“I am so excited, terrified and proud to be invited to be part of Strictly 2017,” Rimmer — best known for Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch — told the BBC.

“I've always been a HUUUUGE fan of the show. When I put on my sequins and hit the floor it will genuinely be my very first time dancing ballroom and latin. Nobody will try harder, have more fun or get more out of it than me. I can't wait.”

As per previous years, this full lineup will be revealed over the course of the next fortnight. Other rumoured contestants to participate in this year's contest include comedian Brian Conley, singer Matt Goss, and Dame Joan Collins.

Judges Darcey Bussell, Craig Revel-Horwood and Bruno Tonioli are all set to return while new judge Shirley Ballas will replace stalwart Len Goodman as Head Judge following his departure.

The new series of Strictly Come Dancing will air on BBC One this autumn.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in