Coronation Street star signs up for BBC Strictly Come Dancing 2024 after saying he 'couldn't do it'

Former Coronation Street star Shayne Ward has signed up for Strictly Come Dancing. The actor and singer was rumoured to be taking part in the BBC dance show this year and confirmed he would be donning his dancing shoes on Thursday (August 8).

Shayne was the eighth celebrity to be confirmed for the upcoming series and joined ninth contestant acress Sarah Hadland on ITV's Lorraine to reveal all.

The former soap star, who played Aidan Connor in ITV's Corrie. said: "I’m buzzing to see all of the sparkles and magic that is 'Strictly' in real life. I’m no stranger to live TV, but dancing Latin and Ballroom in front of millions is a whole new level. No promises on my dancing ability, but I will give it my best shot!"

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Shayne admitted he will draw on his X Factor, which he won in 2005, experiences to "block" the live audience out on the programme. He told Christine Lampard on Lorraine: "I'm used to being in front of a live audience.

"People remember me from 2005 X Factor, so I know what it takes to be in front of a live audience and also try to block them out and imagine they're not there. It'll just be me and whoever I'm partnered up with, which I'm super excited about."

But Shayne, who shares Willow and Reign with actress wife Sophie Austin, did admit to previously being 'scared' of signing up for Strictly. He said: "It's always been there... I'm just super excited about it. I've watched it for so many years and had such massive admiration for everyone taking part as I know it's not easy.

"But for me, honestly, I always felt nervous to do it. I couldn't do