Tabby Stoecker, the 25-year-old Olympic skeleton champion, is set to make her debut on the BBC’s "Strictly Come Dancing" in the opening live show of the new series. Having made history earlier this year by winning gold alongside teammate Matt Weston in the skeleton team event at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, Stoecker is now switching from the icy track to the dance floor.

Known for reaching speeds exceeding 80 mph on a small sled without brakes or steering, Stoecker admits that the challenges of "Strictly," including dancing in high heels and heavy makeup, present a new kind of pressure. “I don’t even wear heels on the weekends,” she said, highlighting the contrast between her athletic routine and the demands of ballroom dancing. The physical challenge of performing full routines in glam attire has left her both excited and apprehensive.

Stoecker’s dance partner for the series is Mark Karmalita, one of the show’s new professional dancers. Their first routine will be a jive to "Animal" by Katseye. Despite her experience in high-adrenaline sport, she admits to feeling nervous ahead of her live debut and has experienced vivid pre-performance dreams, including falling down stairs. Nevertheless, she has embraced the transformation that comes with the show’s theatrical style, enjoying the application of makeup and sparkly costumes that are a marked departure from her sportswear.

This year has been a remarkable one for Stoecker, who not only achieved Olympic success but also secured roles on two television programs: "Strictly Come Dancing" and the revival of "Gladiators," where she will compete under the name Gold Star. Both shows will showcase different aspects of her athleticism and performance skills. Former "Gladiators" contestants who previously participated in "Strictly," Montell Douglas and Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, have offered advice on the training required and the importance of blister plasters, underscoring the physical toll the dance competition can take.

Born in London, Stoecker’s athletic journey began with gymnastics and extended to training in circus arts such as trapeze and juggling. She entered skeleton racing after responding to a Team GB talent search during her A-levels, despite having no prior experience in the sport. Her background in high-risk physical disciplines has helped her cope with the demands and dangers of skeleton racing, including multiple crashes, and she remains unfazed by the potential harsh critiques from "Strictly" judge Craig Revel Horwood.

While focused on her television commitments, Stoecker plans to return to competition racing in 2027, provided she remains injury-free. She expressed particular concern about the lifts and holds in dance, a contrast to her usual proximity to the ground during skeleton runs, though she trusts her partner and is determined to overcome her fears.

The new series of "Strictly Come Dancing" began airing at 6:15 p.m. on BBC One, featuring Stoecker among its diverse cast, all aiming for the coveted Glitterball Trophy.