James Cracknell has become the latest confirmed celebrity on Strictly Come Dancing 2019.
James is a double Olympic Gold Medallist rower, who won his medals in the 2000 Sydney Games and 2004 Athens Games alongside team mates Steve Redgrave and Matthew Pinsent.
He said today, “I’m really looking forward to being a part of Strictly this year.
“Having spent so many years mucking around in a rowing boat with big men in tight lycra, it’s time I learned a new skill. I need to apologise to my kids in advance for the embarrassment.”
Since retiring James has carried out dangerous and gruelling challenges including The Race Across the Atlantic, where he and Ben Fogle finished first, and the Yukon Arctic Ultra, cycling over 430 miles in the race across the frozen Alaskan countryside.
More recently, he became the oldest ever Boat Race champion at 46 as part of Cambridge University’s crew as they rowed to victory at the 165th Boat Race.
James is the fourteenth confirmed Strictly Come Dancing contestant.
Yesterday saw Radio 1 DJ Dev Griffin and sports pundit, presenter and former professional footballer Alex Scott MBC announced for the show.
Dev said: “I just can’t believe I’m doing Strictly, it just doesn’t feel real yet! It’s going to be so much fun, but just to be clear, I’m not doing this to take part, I’m totally in it to win it! I can’t wait to meet my partner and start practicing.”
Alex added: “I am absolutely buzzing to be signed up to Strictly. It’s the show I’ve always wanted to do and I can’t believe I’m finally going to be part of it. I’m super excited, but also terrified at the same time… The football pitch is a bit less glam than the ballroom, but I’m ready to try the sequins and dresses! Bring it on!”
The rest of this year’s currently confirmed Strictly line up include Made In Chelsea star Jamie Laing, World Table Tennis Paralympic champion Will Bayley MBE and American singer, television host, radio DJ, and Drag Race star Michelle Visage.
Also on the cast are Viscountess Emma Weymouth, CBBC presenter Karim Zeroua, BBC sports presenter Mike Bushell, soap star Catherine Tyldesley and YouTube vlogger Saffron Barker.
They’re joined by England international goalkeeper David James, comedian Chris Ramsey and EastEnders actress Emma Barton.
Rumoured celebs who are tipped to complete the cast include TV legend Anneka Rice.
Strictly Come Dancing will start on TV on BBC One in September.
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