Strictly Come Dancing 2026: Who’s the Favourite to Win
The 2026 season of Strictly Come Dancing has opened with fresh pairings and betting odds that place social media star John Nellis as the top favourite. The returning judges and new hosts set the stage for a competitive run, while the launch episode drew a record viewership. Fans can now track how t…
By Felo News Desk · Published
When the BBC’s flagship dance show launched its 2026 series last weekend, viewers were treated to a new set of celebrity pairings, a familiar panel of judges and a fresh presenting lineup. The episode also revealed the betting odds that have already begun to shape the narrative of who might lift the Glitterball Trophy this season.
New Pairings and Professional Partners
During the launch show, the celebrities were matched with their professional dancers, a moment that always sparks speculation about future success. Social media influencer John Nellis will be dancing with Nikita Kuzmin, a seasoned professional who has guided past contestants to the final stages. EastEnders actress Lacey Turner has been paired with Jowita Przystal, while former model and television presenter Dani Dyer will take the floor with Nikita’s fellow professional, Nikita Kuzmin as well. Australian singer Delta Goodrem is set to dance alongside Kai Widdrington, and British actor Lawrence Robb will be partnered with Jowita Przystal. These pairings suggest a mix of experience and fresh chemistry that could play a pivotal role in the competition.
Judging Panel and Presenting Team
The judging panel remains a mix of seasoned experts: Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke all return to offer their critiques. Their combined experience ensures that the scoring remains consistent with past seasons. On the presenting side, Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe have taken over the hosting duties, bringing a blend of warmth, humor and energy that fans have come to expect from the show.
Betting Odds and Favourite Predictions
According to oddschecker.com, the betting market has already identified a clear favourite. Social media star John Nellis is backed at 3/1 to win the Glitterball Trophy, making him the top contender in the eyes of bookmakers. Following closely are EastEnders star Lacey Turner at 7/2 and former television personality Dani Dyer at 6/1. Australian singer Delta Goodrem is listed at 13/2, while actor Lawrence Robb is at 9/1. Other notable names include Cach Mercer, Tabby Stoecker, Bethany Antonia, Will Best, Graeme Hall, Jaime Winstone, Melanie Walters, Chris Appleton, Dame Sarah Storey and Shaun Wright-Philipps, with odds ranging from 11/1 to 100/1.
The odds snapshot was taken at 6:40am on Sunday, September 27, and are subject to change as the series unfolds. They reflect the betting market’s current sentiment but do not guarantee outcomes. Viewers and fans will need to watch the performances, judge scores and audience votes to see how the rankings evolve.
Launch Episode Viewership and Audience Reception
The launch episode drew a peak of 5.8 million viewers, surpassing last year’s launch by 200,000 viewers. BBC overnight figures confirm that the new series has already captured the public’s attention, with the opening performance featuring a group number set to an orchestral rendition of “Joy” by Raye. The high viewership indicates strong interest in the new pairings and the competitive drama that is sure to follow.
What Happens Next?
While there was no elimination during the first live show, the scores awarded will count towards the competition’s overall standings. The next episode will see the celebrities perform individually, with judges scoring each routine and the public voting to determine who stays and who leaves. As the series progresses, betting odds will likely shift in response to performances, injuries, and audience sentiment. Fans can expect a mix of drama, dance, and unexpected twists as the contestants battle it out for the Glitterball Trophy.
With a blend of returning judges, new hosts, and fresh pairings, the 2026 season promises to deliver the excitement and glamour that have made Strictly Come Dancing a staple of British television. Whether John Nellis will live up to his 3/1 odds remains to be seen, but the stage is set for a season of memorable moments and dance floor triumphs.
Key facts
- John Nellis is the top betting favourite at 3/1
- New celebrity–professional pairings announced at launch
- The judging panel remains unchanged with four returning judges
- Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe host the series
- The launch episode set a new viewership record with 5.8 million viewers
Why it matters
Strictly Come Dancing remains one of the UK’s most watched television events, and the betting odds provide fans with a snapshot of public sentiment and potential outcomes. Understanding the favorites and the dynamics of the competition helps viewers engage more deeply with the show’s narrative.
Frequently asked questions
Who are the judges for Strictly Come Dancing 2026?
The judging panel consists of Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke.
What were the viewership numbers for the launch episode?
The launch episode attracted a peak audience of 5.8 million viewers, 200,000 more than the previous year.
Which celebrity is the current favourite to win?
Social media star John Nellis is backed at 3/1 to win the Glitterball Trophy.
Sources
- [1] standard.co.uk — originally reported as “Strictly Come Dancing 2026: Who is favourite to win?”
