CBBC presenter Rhys Stephenson will be quick-stepping onto our screens this year as he is the fifth celebrity announced to join the 2021 Strictly Come Dancing line-up.
The actor and children’s television host will join the likes of AJ Odudu, GBBO’s John Whaite, Robert Webb and Tom Fletcher in competing for the coveted glitter ball trophy.
Who is Rhys Stephenson?
Rhys Stephenson is by now a staple of children’s television, hosting high-profile shows such as Blue Peter and Newsround.
The London-born celeb has been the friendly, smiling face of CBBC since 2017, when he began hosting the presentation links between shows, live from the channel’s Salford HQ.
Following an announcement on August 6 morning Newsround bulletin that he was taking part, Rhys said: “I am BUZZING to be a part of Strictly Come Dancing 2021.
“I have dreamt about being on this show, and I know for a fact that it is going to exceed every expectation.
“I cannot wait to experience it all: the costumes, the orchestra, even Craig’s glare! I am READY!”
Rhys started his presenting career in 2013 on his university’s television channel, Smoke TV, and in the same year he went on to perform alongside Matt Smith, Hugh Bonneville and Jessica Hynes after joining the National Youth Theatre.
The CBBC favourite is also friends with fellow children’s presenter Karim Zheroual, whom he supported during the Strictly finals back in 2019.
Who will he partner in Strictly Come Dancing 2021?
Professional partners for this year’s batch of contestants are yet to be announced, but dancers making a comeback include reigning champion Oti Mabuse, Dianne Buswell, Karen Hauer, Amy Dowden, Katya Jones and Luba Mushtuk.
Poland’s Jowita Przystal, who won 2020’s series of The Greatest Dancer, will also be one of four new additions to the cast.
On August 5, it was revealed that former Great British Bake Off winner John Whaite will be part of the first ever same-sex male partnership on the show, following on from Boxer Nicola Adams and Katya Jones’ debut as the first female couple last year.
What TV shows has he presented?
Rhys has presented various popular CBBC shows, including Blue Peter, Newsround, The Dengineers and Saturday Mash-Up!
He has hosted the annual Blue Peter book awards, presented the main stage at the CBBC Summer Social music festival and has presented online content for BAFTA kids.
An ambassador for children’s mental health charity Place2Be, Rhys has also contributed to CBBC’s Children In Need and Comic Relief coverage.
