Melanie Walters, the Welsh actress best known for her role as Gwen West in the BBC sitcom Gavin and Stacey, has been confirmed as a contestant for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing.
A show insider said: “Melanie is loved across the country for her role as Gwen.
“BBC bosses are very excited to have landed Melanie, given her popularity.”
Ms Walters, 64, is from Swansea and also works as a pilates instructor and personal trainer.
In the Gavin and Stacey Christmas special in 2024, her character revealed a new romance with Dave Coaches, played by Steffan Rhodri.
Gavin & Stacey icon Melanie Walters has reportedly signed up for this years Strictly Come Dancing. #Strictly pic.twitter.com/aySqsaPbfx
— sᴜᴘᴇʀ ᴛᴠ (@superTV247) June 20, 2026
This news shocked her son Jason (Robert Wilfort) and brother-in-law Uncle Bryn (Rob Brydon).
Ms Walters joins a growing line-up of confirmed Strictly contestants including singer Delta Goodrem, Love Island’s Dani Dyer, EastEnders actress Lacey Turner, and celebrity hairdresser Chris Appleton.
Paralympic cyclist Dame Sarah Storey has also reportedly joined the series.
In other television news, new Strictly host Emma Willis will continue presenting on ITV this autumn as the face of The Voice, which will air its pre-recorded series on Saturday nights.
A source said: “Emma is going to be the face of Saturday night telly.
“It’s a bit awkward as Strictly is her shiny new gig, but she also has promotional duties with The Voice.”
Last Gavin and Stacey episode
The last-ever episode of hit BBC sitcom Gavin & Stacey aired on Christmas Day last year and was watched by more than 19 million viewers.
The 90-minute finale was the most-watched TV programme on Christmas Day in 23 years.
Are you looking forward to Strictly Come Dancing? Let us know in the comments
