BBC Strictly fans fume 'really?' as sixth celebrity announced in line-up: 'Bottom of the barrel!'

WATCH HERE: Gladiators' Nitro confirmed as a Strictly contestant

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BBC

Olivia Gantzer

By Olivia Gantzer


Published: 12/08/2025

- 17:55

Many viewers opposed to having a social media star in the series

Strictly Come Dancing fans who have eagerly been awaiting updates on this year's line-up have been left furious after the sixth celebrity was confirmed on Tuesday.

The BBC shared YouTuber George Clarke is the sixth star set to join the iconic dancefloor this year.


Clarke, who is also a podcaster, has built a thriving digital career and has millions of followers on YouTube, TikTok and Instagram.

His voice is also heard on The Useless Hotline Podcast, which has led to a series of live shows across the UK.

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X response

Some Strictly fans were disappointed by the latest announcement

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X

On his sign-up for the show, Clarke commented: "Never thought I’d say this… but I’m doing Strictly!

"Honestly, I’ve got no idea what I’m doing but I’m excited to get stuck in... and potentially fall over a fair bit."

The news was revealed on BBC Radio 1’s Going Home Drivetime Show on Tuesday, August 12.

However, just minutes later, social media was flooded with disappointed fans who hadn't heard of Clarke.

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Dani Dyer

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Dani Dyer were announced as BBC Strictly contestants on Monday

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BBC

Writing on X, one penned: "Another hopeless series full of box ticking and not much substance.

"Used to love watching Strictly full of celebs trying their hardest now all you need is a social media account BBC I'm waiting for my call up but won't hold my breath #Strictly."

A second wrote: "Tik Tok 'star' ffs #Strictly," while a third asked: "Do we really need social media "stars" on #Strictly? Are these people really prime-time Saturday night TV worthy?"

"Not impressed with the line up so far apart from Alex Kingston #Strictly," another admitted.

"Bottom of the barrel is an understatement WOW... #Strictly," one particularly furious fan shared.

Another quipped: "When are more 'celebrities' going to be announced?"

Despite the backlash, some were more open to welcoming Clarke to the popular series, with one posting: "This series is gonna be absolute chaos in the best way possible, I’m here for it #Strictly #bbcstrictly #SCD."

"Okay most [people] under 25 seem to know who he is George seems fun #strictly," someone else remarked. (sic)

George Clarke

BBC Strictly: George Clarke is the sixth name to be revealed

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BBC

This was followed by three further names, which were confirmed on BBC's The One Show and included Love Island star Dani Dyer, former footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and actress Alex Kingston.

The news sparked mixed responses from fans, with some complaining about use of reality stars and others looking forward to the show.