'I promise you, I’m going to give it everything I’ve got'

Eddie Kadi has become the fifth celebrity contestant confirmed for the new series of Strictly Come Dancing.

The British-Congolese comedian, who also hosts his own show on BBC Radio 1Xtra, said: ‘Wow! Anyone who knows me, understands that music and dance is so important and central to who I am.

‘I’m so unbelievably proud and honoured that Strictly and the BBC have asked me to join the 2023 team. I promise you, I’m going to give it everything I’ve got. This is going to be a vibe.’

In 2020, Kadi became the first British black comedian to headline the O2 Arena in London. He has hosted the Mobo awards, is a team captain on ITV’s black history panel show Sorry I Didn’t Know and this year has been nominated for the Royal Television Society best breakthrough award.

He is also in production for his own documentary with Channel 4 with the working title Crazy Rich… Ghanaians, visiting Accra to report back on  the extravagant side of West African life. 

Also in the line-up this year are Amanda Abbington, Angela Rippon, Layton Williams and Angela Scanlon - with more to be announced.

The news of Kadi’s involvement was revealed on his Radio 1Xtra show, The Official UK Afrobeats Chart Show, yesterday.

Strictly returns to BBC One this autumn for its 21st series.

Published: 7 Aug 2023