With summer drawing to a close, we’re edging closer towards cosy autumn nights in front of the television, meaning that the return of Strictly Come Dancing is just around the corner.
Earlier this morning, this year’s first celebrity hopeful was confirmed. As announced on BBC Breakfast, Katie Piper will be taking to the dancefloor for Strictly 2018.
It's time for our very first celeb reveal of 2018! Welcome to #Strictly, Katie Piper ?? @KatiePiper_ https://t.co/Z7nFu32YcR pic.twitter.com/KzJBbxVfnk
— BBC Strictly ? (@bbcstrictly) August 13, 2018
Katie is best known for her incredible charity work and campaigning. In 2009 she founded The Katie Piper Foundation following a horrific life-changing acid attack. Following her ordeal, Katie has used her platform to speak openly about her experience and to raise awareness for fellow victims. She has become an inspiration to many, and was given a special recognition award at The Pride of Britain Awards 2012.
Katie has also shared her experience on numerous TV shows including Katie: My Beautiful Face, and Bodyshockers. She has also written six books including self-help guides and two autobiographies.
Speaking about taking part on Strictly Come Dancing, Katie said: “I feel so privileged and excited to be part of my favourite show on TV. I already know how much of an amazing experience it will be for me and I can’t wait to show my girls some of my new dance moves!”
Fans of Strictly can expect two more announcements later today, with more celebrities to be revealed on The One Show tonight.
Once all the celebrities have been revealed, they will be teamed up with their professional dancers. There will be 18 professionals on Strictly this year: AJ Pritchard, Aljaž Škorjanec, Amy Dowden, Anton Du Beke, Dianne Buswell, Giovanni Pernice, Gorka Marquez, Graziano Di Prima, Janette Manrara, Johannes Radebe, Karen Clifton, Katya Jones, Kevin Clifton, Luba Mushtuk, Nadiya Bychkova, Neil Jones, Oti Mabuse and Pasha Kovalev.
Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Bruno Tonioli and Darcey Bussell return as judges, with Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on hosting duties.