Gavin and Stacey Star Melanie Walters Confirmed as Final Celebrity for Strictly 2026

Actress Melanie Walters has been confirmed as the fifteenth and final celebrity signing for the 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing. Walters is best known for her long-running role as Gwen, the warm and beloved Welsh mother, in the popular BBC comedy series Gavin and Stacey.

A Well-Known Face

Gavin and Stacey has remained one of the most beloved British sitcoms in recent memory, and Walters's portrayal of Gwen helped define much of the show's warmth and comedic heart. Her casting in Strictly is expected to be welcomed by fans of both shows.

A Full Celebrity Lineup

With Walters confirmed, the full cast of 15 celebrities for Strictly 2026 is now in place. The 2026 series follows the familiar format with professional dance partners to be assigned in coming weeks as the show prepares to launch later in the year.

About Strictly Come Dancing

Strictly Come Dancing is one of the BBC's flagship entertainment programmes, pairing celebrities with professional ballroom and Latin dancers in weekly competition. It typically draws millions of viewers each weekend and has been running since 2004.