Strictly Come Dancing has reportedly signed up its second contestant for the 2024 series who has “everything it takes to win”.
Hockey star Sam Quek, who won gold for Team GB at the 2016 Olympics, has reportedly signed up for Strictly Come Dancing.
The news comes after Olympic swimmer Tom Dean confirmed his place in the BBC line-up weeks before the show’s official announcement.
A TV source said on Friday: “The show is really tapping into the buzz surrounding the Olympics this year, as well as heavily leaning into BBC talent – perhaps more than ever before.
“But Sam has recently become a star and carved out a niche as a presenter, bringing much-needed glamour to this year’s line-up,” they told The Sun.
Since her Olympics success, Sam, 35, has enjoyed a successful TV career, joining A Question of Sport as a team captain in 2020 and taking part in I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! in 2016, finishing in fourth place.
Other stars rumoured to have signed up include Ted Lasso’s Hannah Waddingham, Love Islander Tasha Ghouri, Nick Knowles, TOWIE star Pete Wicks, EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick, footballer Paul Merson and blind comedian Chris McCausland.
Tom Dean, 24, let slip that he has signed up for Strictly after reaching the Paris Olympics final of the men’s 200 metres individual medley on Thursday night.
Tom said: “Naturally you want to take a break after you’ve had a full Olympic cycle and the opportunity arose. I thought it would be really exciting to try something a bit different.
“I’ll be doing that and straight back into training after it. It’s something to look forward to.”
The three-time Olympic champion said he would seek advice from his Team GB teammate, Adam Peaty, who took part in Strictly in 2021 with Katya Jones.
The announcement comes amid a storm of controversy over the treatment of contestants on the BBC show.
The results of an investigation, launched by the BBC following allegations made about Giovanni Pernice by former participant Amanda Abbington, will reportedly be published this week.
The 33-year-old Italian professional dancer has rejected allegations of “threatening or abusive behaviour” made by Sherlock actress Abbington, who was partnered with him in 2023 before he left the show.
Graziano Di Prima was also axed from the professional line-up after allegations about his treatment of Zara McDermott.
Strictly Come Dancing continues to make headlines with its latest contestant announcement for the upcoming 2024 series. This time, it’s none other than the talented hockey star Sam Quek who has reportedly signed up to showcase her dancing skills on the popular BBC show. With a gold medal under her belt from the 2016 Olympics, Sam is no stranger to competition and is said to have “everything it takes to win” the coveted Strictly glitterball trophy.With the show tapping into the excitement surrounding the recent Olympics and featuring a lineup that heavily leans into BBC talent, fans can expect a star-studded cast this season. Sam Quek, who has transitioned from sports to television seamlessly, brings a touch of glamour and athleticism to the dance floor. Her successful TV career, including stints on shows like A Question of Sport and I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, has prepared her for the challenge ahead.In addition to Sam Quek, rumors swirl about other potential contestants joining the show, including familiar faces like Ted Lasso’s Hannah Waddingham, Love Islander Tasha Ghouri, and footballer Paul Merson. Each season, Strictly Come Dancing manages to surprise and entertain viewers with its diverse lineup and impressive dance routines.Not to be outdone, Olympic swimmer Tom Dean has also confirmed his participation on the show, following a stellar performance at the Paris Olympics. With three Olympic gold medals to his name, Tom is ready to trade his swim trunks for dance shoes and showcase his versatility on the dance floor. Seeking advice from fellow Olympian Adam Peaty, who competed on Strictly in 2021, Tom is looking forward to the new challenge ahead.Meanwhile, controversy surrounds the show as allegations of mistreatment by professional dancers have come to light. An investigation by the BBC into the allegations made by former contestant Amanda Abbington against Giovanni Pernice is set to be published soon. The show has also severed ties with professional dancer Graziano Di Prima amid allegations of misconduct. Despite the controversies, Strictly Come Dancing remains a beloved staple of British television, bringing joy and entertainment to audiences across the country.Stay tuned for more updates and exciting news about the upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing. Follow us for the latest information and behind-the-scenes insights into the show. Get ready to witness a thrilling display of talent, passion, and skill as the contestants take to the dance floor in hopes of claiming the coveted Strictly crown.
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Source: New York Post
