BBC/Composite: EastEnders Insider Share By Joel Harley Aug 12 2025 By Joel Harley Aug 12 2025 BBC confirms Balvinder Sopal for Strictly 2025 as line-up is revealed Balvinder's swapping Walford for the Strictly ballroom Balvinder Sopal Strictly Come Dancing Suki Panesar Share By Joel Harley Aug 12 2025 By Joel Harley Aug 12 2025 EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal has been confirmed to be participating in Strictly Come Dancing 2025. It was reported earlier this year that the actress, who plays Suki Panesar on the soap, was being lined up to take part in this year’s competition. The BBC has now confirmed these rumours, announcing Balvinder as the fifth name officially set to join the line-up. Other names also confirmed include Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeete, Dani Dyer, Alex Kingston and Jimmy Floyd. Suki Panesar star Balvinder Sopal has her invite to the Strictly ball(room) (Picture: BBC) Balvinder Sopal confirmed for Strictly Come Dancing 2025 Balvinder’s ballroom appointment was revealed this morning (August 12) on ITV’s Good Morning Britain, in a segment which came live from Albert Square. On joining Strictly, Balvinder said: “Being on Strictly is a dream that I held on to, with no proof that it would ever happen. “Working on EastEnders and being a part of Strictly Come Dancing is the stuff that dreams are made of. I’m far too excited to put into words how I feel. But I’m incredibly excited at the prospect of dancing across the ballroom!” Article continues below Read all the latest spoilers Co-star Emma Barton was among those wishing her congratulations (Credit: BBC) EastEnders stars share their congratulations as Strictly welcomes its newest contestant The BBC also shared Balvinder’s news in a post to EastEnders and Strictly’s Instagram account. The caption read: “Our #Strictly 2025 storyline is about to get even more gripping! @bbceastenders Balvinder Sopal is joining our line-up.” In the comments below, Strictly and EastEnders cast members alike shared their well-wishes. “Saturday nights ?? Love mate ?” said James Farrar, who plays Zack Hudson on the soap. Meanwhile, Honey Mitchell star – and one time Suki crush – Emma Barton shared two heart emojis. “Welcome to @bbcstrictly ??” said professional dancer Gorka Marquez. “Welcome,” said Dianne Buswell. Strictly judge Motsi Mabuse wrote: “Welcome to the Strictly family, Balvinder! Can’t wait to see you bring all that energy, drama and sparkle to the dance floor. it’s going to be magic!” Are you excited to see Balvinder join the Strictly family? Read more: Who’s leaving, joining and returning to EastEnders? Complete list of cast exits, arrivals and returns. Share Good to Know Share By Joel Harley Aug 12 2025 By Joel Harley Aug 12 2025
