Chris Appleton has been announced as the fourth celebrity contestant confirmed for ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ 2026. The world-renowned conceptual hair stylist will head to the ballroom when the eagerly anticipated new series begins this autumn.The official announcement was revealed on Friday, 19 June, 2026, across the official ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ social channels, including Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube.
Chris Appleton said he is “thrilled” to return to the UK and take on a brand-new challenge on the dance floor.
Who is Chris Appleton
Chris Appleton is a globally recognised conceptual hair stylist known for his impeccable attention to detail and creative vision. Named a Hair Star by Vogue UK, he is highly sought after by some of the biggest names in music, entertainment, fashion and advertising. His work has been featured on covers and in major publications including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, Grazia and L’Officiel Paris.His impressive client list includes Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, Sofía Vergara, Ariana Grande and Katy Perry. Appleton recently made the New York Times Best Sellers list for his debut memoir, ‘Your Roots Don’t Define You’.
Chris Appleton on joining the show
Speaking about his decision to compete, Appleton expressed his enthusiasm for the challenge ahead, according to the BBC. “I’m thrilled to be joining Strictly Come Dancing and coming home to the UK for this incredible experience. I’ve always believed that the best things happen when you take a chance and try something new,” he said. “I may know my way around a salon floor, but the dance floor is a whole different story, and I can’t wait to get started.“
Known for styling stars including Jennifer Lopez and Kim Kardashian, Chris Appleton will swap the salon floor for the ballroom when ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ returns this autumn.
What to expect from ‘Strictly Come Dancing 2026 ‘
Further contestant announcements and details about the series are expected to be revealed throughout the summer ahead of the brand-new series getting underway this September. Viewers can add the show to their watchlist on the streaming platform now.With Chris Appleton now confirmed as part of the 2026 lineup, the search continues for the remaining celebrity dancers who will take to the floor later this year on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.