The glitterball trophy is gleaming, the music is swelling, and the anticipation is palpable as we head into the grand finale of Strictly Come Dancing. Following in the dazzling footsteps of last year’s finalists Bobby Brazier, Layton Williams, and the ultimate champion Ellie Leach, a brand new cast of celebrities has graced the dance floor in 2024, each vying for the coveted crown. This year’s Strictly Come Dancing Cast has delivered weeks of stunning performances, surprising eliminations, and unforgettable moments. As the final draws near, let’s take a closer look at the stars who made up the Strictly Come Dancing cast of 2024, and relive their journeys on this spectacular season. Get ready to know the celebrities who dared to dance and captured the nation’s hearts.
Sarah Hadland
Sarah Hadland wearing a blue shirt, smiling in front of the blue sparkly Strictly background.
Alt text: Sarah Hadland, British actress known for Miranda and The Job Lot, poses for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, smiling against a blue glitter backdrop.
Age: 53
Job: Actress
Instagram: @hadderstime
Sarah Hadland, a celebrated British actress, brought her theatrical flair to the Strictly ballroom. Widely recognized for her comedic role as Stevie Sutton in the beloved BBC sitcom Miranda (2009-2015) and as Trish in The Job Lot (2013-2015), Hadland is no stranger to the spotlight. Her diverse acting portfolio spans television and film, including appearances in Horrible Histories, the James Bond film Quantum of Solace, and Leap Year. More recently, she showcased her versatility in the sci-fi series The Man Who Fell to Earth. Hadland’s stage experience is equally impressive, having graced the stage in productions of Cats, Grease, and Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Her transition to the dance floor was eagerly anticipated by fans familiar with her dynamic performances across various genres.
Tasha Ghouri
Tasha Ghouri smiling ahead in a selfie, in front of blue sparkly Strictly colours.
Alt text: Tasha Ghouri, Love Island star and deaf advocate, smiles confidently in a promotional selfie for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, set against a sparkling blue background.
Age: 25
Instagram: @tashaghouri
Job: Model and TV personality
Tasha Ghouri, a prominent model and television personality, illuminated the Strictly dance floor with her vibrant energy. Ghouri captured public attention on Love Island in 2022, where her relationship with Andrew LePage blossomed, and they remain together to this day. Making history as the first deaf contestant on Love Island, Tasha has become a powerful advocate for the deaf community. Her advocacy work extends to collaborations with Number 10 Downing Street, The Department of Education, and MED-AL, championing inclusivity and awareness. Beyond television, Tasha is a published author with her debut novel Hits Different and hosts her own podcast, Superpowers with Tasha, further amplifying her voice and reach. Her participation in Strictly brought her inspiring journey to a new audience.
JB Gill
JB Gill smiling and wearing a black turtleneck.
Alt text: JB Gill, JLS singer and former X Factor runner-up, poses for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, smiling in a black turtleneck against a neutral backdrop.
Age: 37
Job: Singer
Instagram: @jbgill
JB Gill, a celebrated singer, brought his musicality and performance experience to Strictly Come Dancing. Best known as a member of the chart-topping boy band JLS, who rose to fame as runners-up on The X Factor in 2008, Gill has been a fixture in the UK music scene for over a decade. While JLS initially disbanded in 2013, they delighted fans with a reunion in 2020, embarking on successful tours that evoked waves of nostalgia. Notably, Gill is no stranger to the Strictly stage, having previously won the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special in 2012 with a memorable Jive alongside former Strictly professional Ola Jordan. Beyond his music career, Gill has broadened his television presence with appearances on Countryfile, The Jump, and Celebrity MasterChef, showcasing his diverse talents and interests.
Chris McCausland
Chris McCausland smiling ahead wearing a blue shirt and is posed in front of the Strictly Come Dancing colours.
Alt text: Chris McCausland, visually impaired comedian, smiles broadly for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, wearing a blue shirt against the show’s signature sparkling backdrop.
Age: 47
Job: Comedian
Instagram: @chrismccauslandcomedy
Chris McCausland, a highly acclaimed comedian, added a unique and inspiring dimension to the Strictly Come Dancing cast. A familiar face on British television, McCausland’s comedic talents have been showcased on shows like Have I Got News for You, Would I Lie to You?, QI, The Last Leg, and 8 out of 10 Cats Does Countdown. McCausland, who became completely blind at the age of 22 due to retinitis pigmentosa, made history as the first blind contestant to participate in the main series of Strictly Come Dancing. His participation was met with widespread admiration and anticipation. Speaking about joining the show, McCausland humorously acknowledged the challenge, stating, “If anybody out there is thinking, ‘How the hell is he going to do that?’ then rest assured that I am thinking exactly the same thing. I don’t dance, I haven’t danced, I can’t dance, I can’t see the dancing I will have to do. What can possibly go wrong? OK, don’t answer that!” His journey on Strictly was a testament to his courage and determination.
Former Strictly Come Dancing 2024 Contestants
While the journey to the final is a thrilling race, it also means saying goodbye to talented contestants along the way. Here’s a look at the celebrities who were part of the Strictly Come Dancing cast 2024 but were eliminated in earlier weeks, each leaving their mark on the competition.
Pete Wicks – ELIMINATED in Week 12
Pete Wicks wearing a black t-shirt and chain, with his hair flicked to the side looking ahead.
Alt text: Pete Wicks, TOWIE star and TV personality, strikes a pose for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, wearing a black t-shirt and chain against a neutral background.
Age: 36
Instagram: @p_wicks01
Job: TV personality
Pete Wicks, a well-known TV personality, brought his reality TV charisma to the Strictly ballroom. Famous for his role on the hit reality series The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE), Wicks has also featured in numerous other programs, including Ex on the Beach, Celebs Go Dating, and Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins. Rumours of Wicks joining Strictly Come Dancing circulated earlier in the year, with sources suggesting his appeal to younger audiences and his novice dance background were seen as assets by the BBC, aiming to recapture the show’s early feel. Although he initially deflected the rumours, Wicks ultimately embraced the challenge, bringing his personality to the dance floor and connecting with viewers throughout his Strictly journey until week 12.
Montell Douglas – ELIMINATED in Week 11
Montell Douglas smiles in a promo image for Strictly Come Dancing 2024.
Alt text: Montell Douglas, Olympian and Gladiators star, smiles radiantly in a promotional shot for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, against a neutral studio backdrop.
Age: 38
Job: Olympian
Instagram: @montytrackstar
Montell Douglas, an Olympian and television personality, injected her athletic prowess and fiery spirit into Strictly Come Dancing. A breakout star from the BBC revival of Gladiators, Douglas transitioned from the arena to the ballroom, bringing her competitive energy to the dance floor. Expressing her excitement about joining Strictly, Douglas stated, “Strictly ARE YOU READY, Fire is here to light up the Ballroom. Wow, I am so honoured to have been asked to do the show. It is such an amazing thing to be a part of and I can’t wait to get started. Hopefully, a few of my Gladiator moves will come in handy with the Tango or Paso Doble!” Her dynamic performances and enthusiastic approach made her a memorable part of the Strictly Come Dancing cast until week 11.
Jamie Borthwick – ELIMINATED in Week 10
Jamie Borthwick wearing a blue blazer and t-shirt, smiling ahead.
Alt text: Jamie Borthwick, EastEnders actor known as Jay Brown, smiles confidently in a promotional image for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, wearing a blue blazer.
Age: 30
Instagram: @jamie_b10
Job: Actor
Jamie Borthwick, a seasoned actor, traded the drama of Albert Square for the dazzling world of Strictly. Fresh from winning the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special the previous year, the EastEnders star, renowned for his long-standing role as Jay Brown since 2006, joined the main series. Throughout his career on EastEnders, Borthwick has garnered nominations for accolades including Best Dramatic Performance from a Young Actor or Actress, Best Soap Actor (Male), and Best Actor, showcasing his acting talent. His transition to Strictly Come Dancing allowed him to demonstrate his versatility and charm, making him a popular contestant until his elimination in week 10.
Wynne Evans – ELIMINATED in Week 9
A photo of Wynne Evans for Strictly Come Dancing. He is stood in front of a blue background, wearing a blue suit and smiling.
Alt text: Wynne Evans, opera singer and Go Compare advert star, poses for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, wearing a blue suit and smiling against a blue backdrop.
Age: 52
Job: Singer and actor
Instagram: @wynneevans
Wynne Evans, a celebrated opera singer and actor, brought his vocal talent and stage presence to Strictly Come Dancing. Widely recognized as Gio Compario from the Go Compare insurance adverts, Evans also boasts an impressive career in theatre, including a role in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 25th-anniversary special of The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall. In addition to his performance career, he hosts a daily radio show on BBC Radio Wales and has previously presented shows on BBC Radio 3 and Classic FM, establishing himself as a prominent broadcaster. His participation in Strictly Come Dancing showcased his personality and willingness to embrace new challenges, entertaining audiences until week 9.
Shayne Ward – ELIMINATED in Week 8
Shayne Ward smiling ahead, wearing a grey jumper in front of the sparkly Strictly background.
Alt text: Shayne Ward, X Factor winner and Coronation Street actor, smiles warmly in a Strictly Come Dancing 2024 promotional image, wearing a grey jumper against a sparkly background.
Age: 39
Instagram: @shaynetward
Job: Actor and singer
Shayne Ward, a versatile actor and singer, added star power to the Strictly Come Dancing cast. Rising to fame as the winner of the second series of The X Factor, Ward is also well-known for his portrayal of Aidan Connor in Coronation Street from 2015 to 2018. More recently, Ward has starred alongside Catherine Tyldesley in Channel 5’s The Good Ship Murder, further demonstrating his acting range. His musical background and experience in performing under pressure made him an intriguing contestant on Strictly, captivating viewers with his performances until week 8.
Sam Quek – ELIMINATED in Week 7
Sam Quek in front of a blue background for Strictly Come Dancing
Alt text: Sam Quek, Olympic hockey gold medalist and TV presenter, poses confidently for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, against a vibrant blue studio backdrop.
Age: 35
Instagram: @samquek13
Job: TV personality and hockey player
Sam Quek, an Olympic gold medalist and television personality, brought her competitive spirit and presenting skills to Strictly Come Dancing. A former Team GB hockey player, Quek has transitioned into a successful broadcasting career, becoming a recognizable face on television. Sources highlighted her rising star status and glamour as valuable additions to this year’s Strictly lineup. Beyond her sporting achievements, Quek has presented and participated in various TV programs, including A Question of Sport, Celebrity MasterChef, and I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, showcasing her versatility. Her determination and engaging personality made her a compelling contestant on Strictly until week 7.
Dr Punam Krishan – ELIMINATED in Week 6
Dr Punam Krishan against a sparkly Strictly backdrop
Alt text: Dr Punam Krishan, NHS doctor and BBC broadcaster, smiles warmly for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, set against the show’s signature sparkly backdrop.
Age: Unclear
Job: NHS doctor
Instagram: @drpunamkrishan
Dr Punam Krishan, an NHS doctor and media personality, brought her intelligence and warmth to the Strictly Come Dancing cast. A resident GP on BBC’s Morning Live and BBC Radio Scotland, Dr Krishan is a regular contributor to health news across TV, radio, and national newspapers. Adding to her accomplishments, she is also an author, having written a children’s book with more publications on the way. Her participation in Strictly Come Dancing highlighted the diverse talents and backgrounds of the contestants, and she charmed audiences until her elimination in week 6.
Paul Merson – ELIMINATED in Week 5
Paul Merson in front of a blue background for Strictly Come Dancing
Alt text: Paul Merson, former Arsenal footballer and sports pundit, poses for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, against a neutral blue studio background.
Age: 56
Job: Pundit and former footballer
Instagram: @paulmerseofficial
Paul Merson, a former footballer and sports pundit, traded the football pitch for the dance floor in Strictly Come Dancing. Having played for prominent clubs like Arsenal, Middlesbrough, Aston Villa, and Portsmouth, Merson also represented England in major tournaments such as the FA Cup, Euros, and World Cup. Following his successful football career, Merson transitioned into management and media, becoming a sports columnist for the Daily Star and a reporter for Sky Sports. His appearance on Strictly showcased a different side of his personality, and he entertained viewers with his efforts until week 5.
Nick Knowles – ELIMINATED in Week 4
Nick Knowles in front of a blue background for Strictly Come Dancing
Alt text: Nick Knowles, DIY SOS presenter and TV personality, poses for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, against a neutral blue studio backdrop.
Age: 61
Instagram: @nickknowles
Job: TV presenter
Nick Knowles, a beloved TV presenter, joined the Strictly Come Dancing cast after much anticipation. Best known for hosting the long-running BBC series DIY SOS since its inception in 1999, Knowles has been a fixture on British television for decades. Sources indicated his enthusiasm for Strictly and his competitive nature as key factors in his casting. Beyond DIY SOS, Knowles has presented various game shows, including Who Dares Wins, Break the Safe, and 5-Star Family Reunion, demonstrating his versatility as a presenter. His participation in Strictly was eagerly awaited by fans, and he brought his characteristic charm to the show until week 4.
Toyah Willcox – Eliminated in Week 3
A photo of Toyah Willcox for Strictly Come Dancing. She is wearing a gold dress and smiling slightly as she stands in front of a blue background.
Alt text: Toyah Willcox, iconic singer and actress, poses for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, wearing a gold dress and smiling against a blue backdrop.
Age: 66
Job: Singer
Instagram: @toyahofficial
Toyah Willcox, a celebrated singer and actress, brought her legendary status to Strictly Come Dancing. With a career spanning over 40 years, Willcox has achieved significant musical success, including eight top 40 singles and over 20 albums. She has also appeared in over 40 stage plays, showcasing her diverse talents in the entertainment industry. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Paul McCartney awarded her a Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts Companionship in 2018. Her participation in Strictly added a touch of rock royalty to the Strictly Come Dancing cast, though her journey ended in week 3.
Tom Dean – Eliminated in Week 2
Tom Dean wearing a red GB jumper and white polo shirt, smiling with his head to the side.
Alt text: Tom Dean, Olympic swimmer and gold medalist, smiles in a promotional image for Strictly Come Dancing 2024, wearing a red GB jumper.
Age: 24
Instagram: @tomdean00
Job: Swimmer
Tom Dean, an Olympic swimmer and gold medalist, made a splash as part of the Strictly Come Dancing cast. After his Olympic triumphs, Dean decided to embrace a new challenge, transitioning from the pool to the dance floor. He inadvertently confirmed his participation, expressing his excitement to try something “a bit different” after an intense Olympic cycle. His athletic background and dedication made him a contestant to watch, although his Strictly journey concluded in week 2.
Strictly Come Dancing continues to captivate audiences with its blend of celebrity charm, dazzling dances, and competitive spirit. The Strictly Come Dancing cast of 2024, from finalists to early departures, each contributed to a season filled with memorable moments. Tune in to see who will lift the glitterball trophy!
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