Actress Jaime Winstone, 41, is preparing to make a memorable entrance on the upcoming season of the popular dance competition, expressing enthusiasm for delivering a "spooktacular" performance. Speaking ahead of the show’s launch, Winstone revealed her ambitions to channel a horror theme during the series’ Movie Week, specifically mentioning a desire to perform to "Goodbye Horses" by Q Lazzarus, a track associated with the 1991 thriller *The Silence of the Lambs*.
Winstone, who has previously portrayed a young Peggy Windsor in an EastEnders spin-off, acknowledged that her requests might stretch the show's traditional style, joking about the improbability of costume designers incorporating elements like Hannibal Lecter’s mask. Her ambitions highlight the creative range the contestants hope to bring to this year’s competition.
Other participants also shared their themed performance aspirations. Former Love Island contestant Dani Dyer, 30, expressed interest in routines inspired by *Mamma Mia!* and *Wicked*, citing personal connections to the songs and artists. Dyer, who withdrew last year due to injury, anticipates learning the identity of her professional dance partner during the show’s opening episode.
Veteran dancer and judges’ critiques appear to play a large role in motivating the contestants. Emmerdale actor Lawrence Robb, 30, highlighted head judge Shirley Ballas’s reputation for her sharp observation, recalling Ballas’s description of having "eyes like a hawk." Tabby Stoecker, 25, a Team GB athlete, echoed this sentiment, describing Ballas’s approach as “tough love.”
Bethany Antonia, 28, known for her role in *House of the Dragon*, expressed particular eagerness for feedback from judge Motsi Mabuse, valuing her focus on technique and performance quality. Former professional footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips, 44, aims to win over Craig Revel Horwood, hoping at least to provoke a smile from the notoriously strict judge.
Australian singer Delta Goodrem, 41, also singled out Revel Horwood as a target to impress, recalling early experiences with demanding dance tutors and the pride she felt when praised despite her childhood shyness.
This year’s series will introduce new hosts Emma Willis, comedian Josh Widdicombe, and professional dancer Johannes Radebe, signaling a fresh dynamic as the competition returns. The season kicks off with a pre-recorded launch show airing on BBC1 and BBC iPlayer on Saturday, September 19, at 7:25 p.m.