EastEnders’ Nicholas Bailey among stars announced for Christmas TV staple

EastEnders star Nicholas Bailey has said he is “really excited” to be announced as the fourth celebrity taking part in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special.

The actor, 54, known for playing Anthony Trueman on the long-running soap, will be paired with professional dancer Luba Mushtuk for the BBC One dancing competition.

Bailey said: “I’m really excited to be doing this, almost as excited as my wife and daughters are!

“Hopefully I’ll do them, Albert Square and Luba proud. Bring on the dancefloor.”

Bailey’s EastEnders character Anthony first arrived on Albert Square more than 25 years ago where he was a Walford regular until 2003.

After guest appearances, Bailey, whose character famously had a relationship with Zoe Slater after dating her mother Kat, returned to the soap earlier in the year.

He joins previously announced celebrities, All Saints singer Melanie Blatt, former Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt, and Gladiator Jodie Ounsley.

This year’s special, hosted by outgoing presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, and judged by Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke, will see six couples battle it out to be crowed the Christmas champion.

Last year’s special was won by Strictly’s first drag artist, Tayce, and professional dancer Kai Widdrington.

The final two celebrities taking part in the 2025 Strictly Christmas special will be announced this week on Strictly: It Takes Two at 6.30pm on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.

The Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer this Christmas.