'Dancing is in my blood' - Ex-Chelsea & Man City star signs up for Strictly Come Dancing

Former Chelsea and Manchester City footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips has been announced as a contestant for the 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing. The retired winger expressed excitement about the challenge, noting that ballroom dancing is outside his comfort zone.
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Celebrity casting for major entertainment programs often influences viewership and media engagement in the UK.
Former Chelsea and Manchester City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips has been confirmed as the latest celebrity contestant for Strictly Come Dancing 2026. The ex-England international admitted that while dancing is in his blood, taking to the ballroom will be completely outside his comfort zone.
Former England international Wright-Phillips has been announced as a contestant for the upcoming 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing. The news was officially revealed on Thursday across the flagship BBC show’s social media channels.
The former winger enjoyed a stellar playing career, earning 36 caps for his country alongside high-profile stints at Manchester City, Chelsea, and Queens Park Rangers. He also spent time in the United States representing the New York Red Bulls and Phoenix Rising before hanging up his boots.
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