Strictly Come Dancing announces ex footballer Karen Carney as 14th contestant

Strictly Come Dancing has confirmed former Lioness footballer Karen Carney as its 14th contestant in the 2025 line-up. The ex athlete played for Chelsea, Arsenal, Birmingham City and England during her footballing career before becoming a pundit on TNT and ITV.

On joining Strictly Come Dancing, Karen Carney says: “It really is a dream come true to be a part of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing line up. I’m such a huge fan of the show and I can’t believe I’m finally getting the chance to take part. I’m so excited to meet everyone and get dancing!"

The countdown to Strictly is officially on, with the cast being revealed by the BBC throughout the week. It comes after Strictly Come Dancing 2025 rumoured start date 'leaked' and fans want answers.

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Yesterday, three names were announced to be taking on the competition.

The Apprentice star and social media personality Thomas Skinner will be heading to the ballroom this year, with the dad-of-three being revealed on Hits Radio. He'll be joining former Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison and Neighbours actor Stefan Dennis.

Earlier in the week, Tom, 34, partied with US Vice President JD Vance at a barbecue in the Cotswolds during his visit to the UK. He described the night as "once in a lifetime", posting a picture of himself with Vance to social media.

Speaking about joining Strictly, Tom said: "I’m beyond excited to be joining Strictly Come Dancing. I’ve tackled the boardroom and some big breakfasts in my time, but stepping on to the dance floor under that glitter ball is next level stuff.

“I’ve never danced in my life other than at weddings, but I’m ready to graft and of course have a laugh. Bring on the sequins, sambas and, most importantly, the bosh to the ballroom.”

Meanwhile, Vicki Pattison - who previously won I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! - was announced on ITV's This Morning yesterday. She said: "I’m absolutely buzzing to be part of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing line-up, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t terrified.

"I am not a natural dancer. However, it’s such an amazing opportunity for me to step out of my comfort zone and to challenge myself in a completely new way, and I just really hope I don’t make too much of a fool of myself."

Neighbours legend Stefan Dennis was the third star to be revealed yesterday, with the soap actor also known for his 1989 single Don't It Make You Feel Good. He told This Morning: "I’m very, very excited to be doing something that is completely and utterly out of my comfort zone.

"But also, because of that, quietly petrified. My gorgeous wife, wherever she is, she’s somewhere out there, Gail, is a professional dancer and she’s been trying to teach me in the most frustrating way for her, I’m sure.

"Because I just keep burying my head in the sand going, ‘No, this is not happening’, she’s been giving me some good tips but that doesn’t mean I’m any good."

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