Kelvin Fletcher joins Strictly 2019

Kelvin Fletcher is ready to slip on some dancing shoes as he joins the Strictly 2019 family!

The actor is best known for playing Andy Sugden in the ITV soap opera Emmerdale from 1996 to 2016, but is now stepping into the Ballroom for a whole new challenge following Jamie Laing's departure earlier this week.

Made in Chelsea star Jamie unfortunately had to bow out of the competition early due to an injury, meaning his Pro partner Oti Mabuse will now be paired with Kelvin for the series.

Speaking about taking part in Strictly, Kelvin said: “Is this really happening?! It’s been the most surreal week of my life! I’m a massive fan of Strictly so it’s incredible."

"I’m so happy that I can be a part of it, but at the same time it’s quite bittersweet! I’m coming in on the back of Jamie’s injury – I keep thinking about him! I can’t imagine going through all this excitement and then having to pull out. My thoughts are with him – he seems like a fantastic guy and I hope he’s doing OK.”

Kelvin will make his Strictly debut in the first live show on Saturday 21st September.