Strictly Come Dancing’s Michelle Tsiakkas flooded with support after 'very exciting' announcement liennhi

Strictly Come Dancing star Michelle Tsiakka

Michelle received her first celebrity partner last year(Image: Michelle Tsiakkas Instagram)

BBC Strictly Come Dancing’s Michelle Tsiakkas was flooded with messages of support after making a ‘very exciting’ announcement.

It's been a frantic period for fans of the BBC soap, with the first members of the class of 2025 slowly being revealed.

Following Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey being unveiled as the first contestant on Monday (August 11), three more famous faces were confirmed on The One Show.

After teasing fans with clues throughout the episode, Roman Kemp and Alex Scott revealed that former Love Island winner Dani Dyer, Doctor Who’s Alex Kingston and Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink are all preparing to learn the art of dance.

Tuesday morning (August 12) saw EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal, who plays Suki Panesar-Unwin on Albert Square, confirmed on Good Morning Britain.

With further names expected in the coming days, Strictly’s professional dancers have remained busy with their work outside of the show.

One person fans are excited to see help a star learn the art of dance is Michelle Tsiakkas, who has been working on the programme since 2022.

Last year saw Michelle receive her first partner, being paired with EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick, who she made it to Week 10 with.

Strictly Come Dancing star Michelle Tsiakkas and her partner Simone Arena(Image: Michelle Tsiakkas Instagram)

Already confirmed for Strictly’s 23rd season, Michelle revealed on Monday that she’s joining forces with her partner Simone Arena for a new venture.

The pair were confirmed to be added to the cast of two Dancing with the Stars weekend experiences at Donaheys dance school.

"We're so excited to tell you that we'll be at not one, but two Donaheys Dancing with the Stars weekends next year," Michelle said in a video on Instagram.

Simone added: "The first will be on the 7th of March at Alton Towers and the second will be on the 28th of March at De Vere Beaumont Estate."

Michelle continued: "We'll be teaching you some really fun dance classes, performing our showcase for you, and, of course, answering all your questions in a Q&A."

Concluding the video, Simone stated: "We can't wait. It's going to be two fabulous weekends, and we hope to see you there."

Teasing what to expect, Donaheys’ post read: “We’re beyond excited to welcome the incredible @michelle_tsiak & @simonearena_official to not one, but TWO of our 2026 Donaheys Dancing with the Stars Weekend Experiences!

“Get ready for: Inspiring workshops, breathtaking showcases, unmissable Q&As ...with two of Strictly’s most dazzling pros! Michelle & Simone’s chemistry, charisma, and jaw-dropping talent will light up the dancefloor and leave you absolutely spellbound. Expect energy, laughter, and plenty of magical moments.

“If you’ve joined us before, you know these weekends are pure dance heaven – and with Michelle & Simone, we’re turning up the sparkle!”

The comments section of the post saw Michelle and Simone’s fans congratulating them and wishing them well on the new venture.

@nenaghnative said: “Fab news!!! Love seeing them dance together!!!!” @ashleigh_sarah_luckhurst added: “Yes, best news. Congratulations guys xxx.”

@sweetalmond01 commented: “Wow this is exciting news!! ….cant wait!!!.. you two are going to be absolutely amazing!!” @ms_may3 posted: “Woo hoo, congratulations.”

@jenny_1707 commented: “Great news! Love that you will get to work together.” @lin3ssen stated: “Amazing professional and couple goals. Congratulations.”

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Strictly Come Dancing’s Michelle Tsiakkas flooded with support after 'very exciting' announcement liennhi

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