The BBC has today announced Cheryl, Matthew Morrison and Oti Mabuse as the ‘Dance Captains’ for its new Simon Cowell-produced show The Greatest Dancer.
As its name suggests, the new talent contest – Simon’s first ever project for the BBC – aims to find the UK’s best dancer across a wide variety of genres.
Now, after months of speculation, the broadcaster has finally confirmed the three judges, known as ‘Dance Captains’, who will be leading the search.
The headline signing is pop superstar, former Girls Aloud member and experienced performer Cheryl.
Cheryl of course has a close association with Simon, as a former star of The X Factor. She reportedly turned down a return to the ITV show in favour of The Greatest Dancer.
Speaking about her new role, she said: “I’m so excited to be part of The Greatest Dancer! I’m looking for acts with real passion, who are going to push boundaries and give it their all.
“From my own dance background, I know the dedication and commitment dancing takes. I can’t wait to get started.”
Joining Cheryl is Matthew Morrison, the Tony, Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated Broadway legend famous for playing Will Schuester in the hit TV series Glee.
“This is such a powerful moment for me. It’s wonderful to continue bringing music and dance into peoples’ lives like we did on Glee,” he commented.
“My sincere hope is that I can uplift and encourage all the dancers here reach their greatness.”
Completing the trio is Oti Mabuse, an eight-time Latin American dance champion in her native South Africa.
She has appeared on Strictly Come Dancing since 2015, as part of its line-up of professional dancers.
Oti added: “I’m looking forward to finding a dancer who can elicit emotion from the audience. I’m looking forward to being able to find amazing new talent and help them unlock their greatest potential.
“I can’t explain how excited I am to be a part of this show!”
The news comes after bosses confirmed Alesha Dixon and Diversity member Jordan Banjo as the presenters last month.
All five judges and hosts have been involved with the show since it was piloted earlier this year.
Auditions for The Greatest Dancer are taking place over the next week at the ICC in Birmingham.
Cheryl, Matthew and Oti will whittle down the contestants, before deciding who they want to mentor for the live shows.
The BBC teased: “Expect dramatic auditions, incredible challenges and remarkable live performances as dancers swing, swirl and sashay onto the stage each week.”
The Greatest Dancer, a co-production between Thames and Simon’s firm Syco, is due to begin on BBC One next year.
