BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing names EastEnders actor Lacey Turner as its first celebrity contestant for the 2026 series. The announcement comes from reporting across multiple outlets, which state that Turner is joining the dance competition ahead of the new season. In coverage attributed to Turner, she expresses enthusiasm about taking part in the programme and describes the opportunity as something she is looking forward to. The reports identify Turner primarily through her role in EastEnders and frame the news as the first confirmed entry in the 2026 celebrity line-up. Further details on the specific competition pairing, professional dance partner, and the full cast for the series are not provided in the excerpts supplied. With Turner confirmed as the first celebrity for 2026, the remaining contestants are expected to be announced later by the BBC as the series approaches. No source in the provided material disputes the announcement, and all accounts agree on Turner’s participation and her status as the first named celebrity for the upcoming run.