Strictly announces BBC Radio One Xtra DJ as fifth celeb to sign for dance show
STRICTLY Come Dancing’s fifth official celebrity contestant has been revealed as stand-up comedian and radio presenter Eddie Kadi.
The multi-award winning star, 40, was announced as the latest star to be taking part on the dance competition during Sunday’s The Official UK Afrobeats Chart Show on BBC Radio 1xtra.
Eddie told his listeners during the show: “We have a very special annoucement, so stick around.”
He then revealed: “I’ve got some news for you guys, I haven’t shared it with anyone else as I thought it was right I shared it with you.
“It seems my weekly dance moves in the studio and on stages across the world have finally been recognised.
“I’m about to take on the big one…”
The Strictly Come Dancing music then played in the background, wit Eddie revealing: “That’s right, your boy is all signed up and confirmed, I will be a contestant on the new series of Strictly Come Dancing.
“I cannot wait. I will still be here every week bringing you the top 20 Afrobeats across the UK.
“I hope you will be rocking with me every Saturday night.
“I’m excited, I am.”
He will be joining newsreader Krishnan Guru-Murthy, 53, became the fourth celebrity to be officially announced for Strictly 2023 — joining actress Amanda Abbington, 51, broadcaster Angela Rippon, 78, and West End performer Layton Williams, 28.
Eddie is recognised as one of the most globally celebrated stand up personalities.
He continues to dominate the world of comedy, reaching across cultures and continents and performing to huge crowds all over the world.
His signature brand of brilliant, bold, high energy entertainment has won him an ever-growing international fanbase and he was the first British black comedian to headline the O2 Arena in London.
Eddie’s worldwide reputation has seen him host both the official red carpet show for BET International and BET Africa in Los Angeles as well as being main stage host for the Afro Nation Festivals across the world.
He has hosted the prestigious MOBO Awards and appeared on numerous TV formats including Blankety Blank, The National Comedy Awards, Tonight with Target and Don’t Hate the Playaz.
The star also fronts The Official Afrobeats Chart Show on BBC Radio 1Xtra and is a Team Captain on ITV’s entertainment format Sorry I Didn’t Know.
This year, Eddie has been nominated for both the prestigious Royal Television Society Best Breakthrough Award and Best Breakthrough Presenter at the Edinburgh TV Awards.
He is also in production for his own documentary with Channel 4.
Eddie 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.”