Strictly Come Dancing: Who is Paralympic swimming star Ellie Simmonds?

Former British swimming star Ellie Simmonds is swapping the pool for the ballroom, having become the latest to join the line-up for this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. 

The 27-year-old is one of Britain’s finest ever Paralympians and first came to national attention when she won two Paralympic gold medals at Beijing in 2008. 

Simmonds retired from swimming in 2021 and has since gone on to become a broadcaster for BBC Sport. 

However, the British star has now confirmed the news that she is joining the hit BBC dance contest and says she is “excited” to get started. 

“Oh my gosh!! I’m literally bursting with excitement!! It’s been soooo hard keeping this secret as I’ve wanted to tell everyone,” she said. 

“I’m going on Strictly Come Dancing!! I’m a tad nervous too, well more than a tad… I’m absolutely petrified!

“To be asked to be part of the Strictly family is just so exciting and I cannot wait, it’s going to be so much fun.”

I can’t believe I’m writing this! I’m literally bursting with excitement!It’s been soooo hard keeping this secret as I’ve wanted to tell everyone…I’m going on @bbcstrictly!I’m a tad nervous too, well more than a tad… I’m absolutely petrified! But I can’t wait!!