Strictly Come Dancing has finally made a return to TV screens, introducing 15 celebrities to the world of ballroom.
Among this year’s celebrities is actress Jaime Winstone, best known for her portrayal of Peggy Mitchell in a number of flashback episodes on EastEnders.
Winstone will be dancing alongside Carlos Gu after being paired in one of three specially-choreographed group dance routines during the launch show.
Gu won last year’s competition with ex-professional footballer and pundit Karen Carney. As is tradition, she returned to the Strictly floor tonight (19 September) to perform with Gu and welcome in the class of 2026.
So, what else do you need to know about Jaime Winstone? Read on to find out more about the Strictly Come Dancing 2026 contestant.
Who is Jaime Winstone?
Age: 41
Job: Actress
Instagram: @jaimewinstone
Jaime Winstone is an actress who received widespread acclaim for her portrayal of the legendary Barbara Windsor in the BBC biopic Babs, and she later went on to step into Windsor’s famous role of Peggy Mitchell in various flashback episodes on EastEnders.
She recently reprised her role for the show’s 40th anniversary, and the episode went on to win the British Soap Award for best single episode.
The actress began her career in 2004 and has since established herself as one of Britain’s most recognisable screen talents, having starred in a string of acclaimed movies including Made in Dagenham, Bullet Boy, Tomb Raider and Wild Bill.
What has Jaime Winstone said about Strictly Come Dancing?
Jaime said of joining the cast: “I feel so excited! I feel like this is such a good time for me to do this. It’s such a great opportunity to show a little bit more of who I am, but also show how much I love performing, dressing up, collaborating with people, and being part of a team.
“Obviously, I’m a bit nervous which I think is normal, and I’m aware that it’s going to be a lot of hard work, but I’m certainly up for the challenge!”
Strictly Come Dancing begins on Saturday 19 September at 7:25pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
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