Get your dancing shoes on because the first celebrity joining this year’s Strictly Come Dancing series has been announced.
It’s none other than Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (also known as Nitro on the BBC game show).
Harry, who was born and raised in Carshalton, appeared in a surprise announcement that saw him prank CBBC Newsround viewers this morning (August 11).
Flexing his reputation as a star of Gladiators: Epic Pranks, Harry appeared live in the Newsround studio disguised as world-renowned choreographer Nicky Trott, who was there to talk about recent work with scientists on a study about the benefits of dancing every day.
His disguise was not enough to trick Newsround presenter Jenny Lawrence, who quickly rumbled who she was really talking to.
The 36-year-old, who also took part in the Strictly Christmas special last year (partnered with Nancy Xu), gave the real reason he was there - he's taking part in the new series of Strictly.
The former Team GB sprinter commented: “After the Christmas special, it was so nice I just had to do it twice!
“I’m so excited to be part of the Strictly family this series and I’m ready to give it all I’ve got.
“I’ll be bringing tons of energy to light up the dance floor.
“Let’s hope I’m as quick picking up the routines as I am on the track.”
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Who do you think Harry’s professional dancing partner will be?
Who is Strictly star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey?
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey is an Olympian, multi-gold medal-winning Team GB sprinter, and star of Gladiators.
As a sprinter he has competed at the highest level in the UK since his youth, becoming the first athlete to win gold medals at both 100 and 200 metres at the World Youth Championships, and winning the 2005 BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year award aged 17.
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Harry has gone on to win gold in the 4x100m relay at the European Championships and at the Commonwealth Games.
He has competed in two Olympic Games and is a three-time European Champion and two-time Commonwealth Champion.
The next three celebrity contestants joining the new series of Strictly will be announced live on The One Show today from 7pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
