EastEnders star Lacey Turner is confirmed as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing for the 2026 series. Ahead of her first appearance, she says she has wanted to do the show for some time but did not feel brave enough to take on the demands of training and performing live.
Turner explains that she was concerned about the strain on her schedule and energy, pointing to what friends and others have described as a difficult experience, including physical exhaustion. She also says her decision this year reflects a change in timing, noting that she is not working on EastEnders during this period and believes it could be a better point to take on both the household and the Strictly commitment.
Across the coverage, the focus is on her reasons for finally saying yes and her expectations for the competition. While she expresses excitement about training and meeting fellow contestants, she also describes herself as “absolutely terrified” or most worried about the live Saturday nights and the makeup chair for extended periods. Other outlets note the broader 2026 context, including the return date and new presenting and hosting arrangements associated with the series.
