Strictly Come Dancing: Viscountess Weymouth Emma Thynn is the EIGHTH contestant confirmed for 2019

Viscountess Weymouth Emma Thynn is the eighth contestant confirmed for Strcitly Come Dancing's 2019 series.

Emma, 33, is a businesswoman, chef, model and philanthropist.

Of signing to Strictly, she said: 'I absolutely love watching Strictly every weekend and I can’t believe that I’m getting the chance to be on this series.

Regal: Viscountess Weymouth Emma Thynn is the eighth contestant confirmed for Strcitly Come Dancing's 2019 series

'I know it will be such an amazing experience from start to finish. I can’t wait for the dancing and the fabulous outfits!'

Following her marriage in 2013 to Ceawlin Thynn, Viscount Weymouth, Emma became the chatelaine of the Longleat Estate in Wiltshire.

She was born in London to a British mother and Nigerian father and was raised in South Kensington where she was head girl at Queen's Gate School. She later attended University College London where she studied History of Art.

In 2015 Emma launched Emma's Kitchen at Longleat, a space for her to share her love of food and cooking using the backdrop of the original kitchens within Longleat House.

Number 8: Emma, 33, is a businesswoman, chef, model and philanthropist

Hubby: Following her marriage in 2013 to Ceawlin Thynn, Viscount Weymouth, Emma became the chatelaine of the Longleat Estate in Wiltshire [pictured in January]

In addition, Emma is a contributing editor for British Vogue, makes regular appearances as a guest chef on James Martin's Saturday Morning TV show and is a model and ambassador for various brands.

In the area of animal conservation Emma is particularly involved in Longleat's project to help save the Northern White Rhino and its work with the charity TUSK. 

This comes after CBBC presenter Karim Zeroual was announced as the seventh celebrity taking part in the show.

The actor, 25, was announced live on stage at the CBBC Summer Social on Saturday where he joined the show's professional dancer AJ Pritchard.    

Announced: CBBC presenter Karim Zeroual was the seventh celebrity announced this week

Fame: The presenter, 25, is best known for his presenting duties on CBBC after joining the children's television brand in 2014 (pictured with Little Mix on the show) 

While Karim excitedly revealed in an official statement: 'To be offered the chance to take part in Strictly is dumbfounding, I’m pinching myself! I’m so excited to be Strictlified. 

'I want THE LOT. The skimpiest of clothes, the widest of flares, the brightest of colours and the tallest Cuban heel a guy can find! The more flamboyant the better… sequins galore please!'

He insisted that he will still continue working on CBBC during rehearsals and admitted that he does have some previous dance experience, he said: 'I did a bit of dancing like street dance, but nothing like ballroom or Latin, nothing like that.'  

Karim is best known for his presenting duties on CBBC after joining the children's television brand in 2014, he has also hosted BBC Young Dancer and Wimbledon Live.

Exciting: BBC Breakfast star Mike Bushell was announced as part of the line-up on Friday

The talented 25-year-old is also currently filming a CBBC documentary, A Week to Beat the World.

Karim rose to fame as a child in the West End, he has previously performed in the likes of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, The Far Pavillions and The Lion King.  

The presenter is also known for his acting credits after starring in EastEnders and as Sadiq in The Sparticle Mystery for three series from 2011 to 2015.     

Karim's announcement comes after BBC Breakfast star Mike Bushell was announced as part of the line-up on Friday.

The sports presenter, 53, was announced on the morning show, after years of being mistaken for 2009 winner Chris Hollins, he revealed.

Star: The presenter hosts the main sports bulletins of the day on BBC Breakfast, as well as profiling main stream sports events

It's him! Mike was unveiled as the sixth contestant during Friday's BBC Breakfast, after a teaser was posted on social media

It comes after Coronation Street star Catherine Tyldesley was revealed as the fifth celebrity taking part on Thursday, as the star-studded lineup for the new series begins to take shape.

As he was unveiled on the show, Mike admitted that for years viewers have confused him with former winner Chris Hollins, saying: 'It feels like a weird dream. I've known a few weeks. I thought they'd got the wrong person, genuinely. 

'Because for years people have got me confused with Chris Hollins, who won in 2009. This happens every week, someone says, ''Can I have a selfie?'' They're in the middle of the selfie, ''My partner loved you on 'Strictly'', and I'm thinking, ''Do I say I've never been on 'Strictly'' or do I keep quiet.' 

The father-of-three went onto admit he managed to keep the news quiet from most of his family, but did come clean to wife Emily, who he married in May.

He said: 'We had the first dance at the wedding at the end of May but it was more jumping up and down really, so I wouldn't really call it practice. I'm flying the flag for all dads dancers, it'll be a steep learning curve.'

Soon to dance: Mike went onto admit that for years he had been mistaken for 2009 winner Chris Hollins, and vowed to take part in the show 'for the dad dancers'

Giddy: Outside the BBC Studio Mike showed off some of his best dance moves as he made a jovial exit from his latest presenting stint

Mike presents the main sports bulletins of the day on BBC Breakfast, as well as profiling main stream sports events from the Olympics, Paralympics, the Winter games, and the Football World Cup.

He also made headlines after a hilarious gaffe saw him tumble into a swimming pool during a live segment for the 2018 Commonwealth Games 

The star added: 'I am so excited to be joining this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. I’ve heard so many wonderful things from colleagues over the years so thrilled I’m now getting the chance. 

'I know I will completely throw myself into the whole experience and I’m sure will love it from start to finish. 

'I may have tried and profiled over 500 sports over the years in my Saturday morning BBC Breakfast slot but think the Strictly challenge could be the greatest. Bring on the glitter!'

Leaping: Mike's jumping skills seem to be sensational as he strutted out of the studio, ready to kick off training for the show next month

Going up! The sports expert leapt high into the air as he left the studio after confirming he was the sixth celebrity to sign up for the show

Mike was the sixth contestant to be revealed for this year's Strictly, after former soap star Catherine was announced a day earlier.

Catherine, 35, has been rumoured to join the 2019 series of Strictly since August 2018 after she teased that she 'might pop up at some point' following a guest debut on the 2017 series. 

Catherine said on Thursday: 'I’m thrilled to be a part of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. I’m a huge fan of the show. It’ll be my biggest challenge to date as I’m not much of a dancer, but I’ve always wanted to learn the skill and the time feels right!'

'I’m nervous as hell but super excited to work with such talented professionals. Hold onto your jazz shoes... mine is sure to be a bumpy/clumsy/fun ride!'  

Speaking to This Morning, Catherine joked about how exciting it's been to keep her big secret, admitting: 'I feel like I'm in the FBI like the other day I came down they needed to take my measurements and they said your code name is Jasmine!'

Exciting times ahead: Coronation Street star Catherine Tyldesley was confirmed as the fifth celebrity to join the 2019 series of Strictly on Thursday

From the bar to the ballroom: The former soap actress, 35, is best known for playing Eva Price in ITV's Corrie, leaving the role in summer 2018 

Big reveal: The mother-of-one couldn't contain her delight as she was presented as the latest addition of the line-up alongside sequin-clad dancers

Secrets: Speaking to Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford on This Morning on Thursday, Catherine joked about how exciting it's been to keep her big secret

Delighted: 'I’m thrilled to be a part of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing', the ITV star told viewers

'My husband obviously is thrilled to bits and when I told my best friend he started laughing and said "oh OK because the history is I can't really dance!"' 

Catherine was insistent that while past contestants always say they can't dance, she has two left feet.

'Every year you know you get those contestants and they say they can't dance and then they get on the floor and they're amazing, nope can't dance!'

Admitting she used to 'swerve' dance classes at school 'because I was so big,' the soap star said she 'needs' to do this to build her self-confidence. 

Candid: During her TV appearance, the Scarborough actress admitted she feels 'nervous' about taking to the dancefloor

Aims: Admitting she used to 'swerve' dance classes at school 'because I was so big,' the soap star said she 'needs' to do this to build her self-confidence

Having fun: Catherine appeared in great spirits as she teased her fancy footwork with hosts Eamonn and Ruth

'We do silly dancing in the kitchen!': The actress has been practicing her moves with her son Alfie

Sensational: The brunette beauty looked radiant during her TV appearance as she stood out in a monochrome polka dot maxi dress, teamed with vibrant yellow heels

The actress has been practicing her moves with her son Alfie, saying: 'I love to dance on a night out if I've had a couple of drinks, and me and Alfie love to do silly dancing in the kitchen.'

The actress lives in Manchester with her personal trainer husband Tom Pitford and their son Alfie, four, with an insider previously revealing that 'she’s unfazed by the Strictly curse as her marriage is super-strong.' 

And Catherine insisted on Thursday's This Morning that her husband is 'so chilled'. He's even been helping her get in shape for the show.

'We've been doing the odd session because I don't really dance I've been lifting weights. The past few weeks I've been so busy filming other projects for the first time in years I've not been going to the gym as much but the last few weeks I've been trying to do cardio,' she explained. 

What curse? The actress is married to personal trainer Tom Pitford with an insider adding that 'She’s unfazed by the Strictly curse as her marriage is super-strong'

Catherine also gushed about her family's reaction, admitting her grandmother is 'so thrilled, it's been hard because rumours have broken saying she might be doing it and people texting me like "oh are you doing it? Can I meet Anton".'

The actress hinted she would be joining Strictly in August 2018 after promising her parents she would go on the show. Responding to a comment telling her to partner up with Aljaž Škorjanec, she said: 'I'm on it dad!! Promise! Cheers mum xxx (sic).'  

The star has no idea who her professional partner will be but says her height narrows the field, pointing out: 'I'm quite tall so in my head I'm narrowing it down maybe Aljaz or  Graziano.'  

Huge fan: Catherine has been rumoured to join the show since August 2018 after she teased that she 'might pop up at some point'

Throwback: The Strictly fan even made a guest appearance on the show back in 2018 (pictured on the BBC show)

Saffron Barker was confirmed as the fourth celebrity to join the 2019 line up earlier on Thursday.

The YouTube star's place in the new series was announced on Heart Radio on Thursday morning by 2018 finalist Ashley Roberts.

Saffron, 19, boasts over two million subscribers on YouTube and follows in the footsteps of fellow social media sensation Joe Sugg, who reached the final last year with his now-girlfriend Dianne Buswell.  

Dancing queen: YouTube star Saffron Barker was confirmed as the fourth celebrity to join the 2019 line up earlier on Thursday

Saffron has a reported net worth of $1million from her YouTube content which focuses on a mix of make up, challenge videos and pranks.

Speaking to Heart Radio, Saffron said despite having 1.2million followers on Instagram she's 'scared' of how the public might react to her place on the flagship BBC show.

'I think that's what I'm most nervous for,' she confessed. 'I think that everyone who follows me will support me as much as possible.'

Big star: Saffron, 19, boasts over two million subscribers on YouTube and follows in the footsteps of fellow social media sensation Joe Sugg, who reached the final last year

Referring to the backlash Joe received last year Saffron added: 'I think the same sort of thing will happen probably. 

'But I think once I get on the show, the public will get to know me as they got to know Joe, because as time went on his personality just shone.' 

While she's a social media sensation, Saffron admitted that her dance skills definitely need some work.  

Big announcement: The YouTube star's place in the new series was announced on Heart Radio on Thursday morning by 2018 finalist Ashley Roberts

Exciting times ahead: Saffron looked in great spirits as she left the Heart Radio studios 

'Everyone keeps thinking I'm going to be really good,' she admitted. 'Sorry to disappoint everyone but I don't think I'm going to be. I'd rate myself maybe a four, that's not great.

'If I go out with my friends all of them can really dance, I'm the worst one if we go to a club. I'm there doing the one, two step and a little bit of a click, that's pretty much all I can do, I wish I could twerk or something but no I can't.'

Saffron also spoke about potentially finding love on the show, laughing 'I am very [single], but I haven't even really thought about that.

'I think I'm just so focused on, obviously I want to meet my partner and have the best time and everything else, but I'm just so focused on working hard.'

Saffron joins former England goalkeeper David James, stand up comic Chris Ramsey and EastEnders star Emma Barton, who were the first three celebrities announced on The One Show on Wednesday. 

Following: Speaking to Heart, Saffron said despite having 1.2million followers on Instagram she's 'scared' of how the public might react

What a week! Saffron only turned 19 seven days ago, making her one of the youngest ever contestants on the BBC show

Setting the bar high: YouTuber Joe Sugg made the final in the 2018 series with his now girlfriend Dianne Buswell

Needs some polish: While she's a social media sensation, Saffron admitted though that her dance skills definitely need some work

Former England goalkeeper David- who has also worked as a football analyst for the BBC and BT Sport - said in a statement: 'I'm really excited to be on Strictly this year. Not just competing against this year's stars, but being compared to previous sport stars from previous Strictly seasons. I have some big shoes to fill.' 

Chris, 32, who gushed: 'As a comedian there are not so many things all the family, including the kids, can watch me on. But this is something everyone can watch.' 

He revealed he had 'told everyone' he was doing it, including three of his friends while drunk.

One, two, three...: [L-R] Footballer David James, comedian Chris Ramsey and EastEnders actress Emma Barton were  unveiled as the first three contestants on The One Show on Wednesday night 

'I told three of my mates on a stag do, but thankfully they forgot!' he said.

He added: 'I'm both excited and absolutely terrified to be doing the show. You will not find me on the dance floor at parties, you will find me at the buffet table. All night.

'At my wedding I danced with my wife; that one song took about six months practice, and I definitely stood on her feet a couple of times. So I'm looking forward to the possibility of making a fool of myself in front of millions of people … there better be a buffet after the live shows.'

Letting it slip: Chris revealed he had 'told everyone' he was doing it, including three of his friends while drunk. 'I told three of my mates on a stag do, but thankfully they forgot!' he said

Ta-Dah! Emma - who plays Honey Mitchell in the stalwart BBC soap - said: 'As possibly one of the biggest Strictly fans on the planet, I still can't believe this is happening

Emma - who plays Honey Mitchell in the stalwart BBC soap - said: 'As possibly one of the biggest Strictly fans on the planet, I still can't believe this is happening.

'I'm very much a dance around your handbag kinda girl, but now I've been given this wonderful opportunity to learn all the different styles of dancing from the very best in the business.

'So, I'm whipping off Honey's Minute Mart tabard and diving right in to all the glitter and sparkle. From Albert Square to the Strictly dance floor - I just can't wait!' 

The reveal may have surprised some fans of the annual tea-time dance competition, who may have been expecting three entirely different names.

Celebs: David has worked as a football analyst for the BBC and BT Sport, while Emma has appeared on Celebrity MasterChef

Earlier in the day, broadcaster Iain Lee randomly claimed that Sam Allardyce, Jamie Laing and Anneka Rice will be the first names to be announced, during an appearance on Good Morning Britain.

He claimed: 'They are going to announce the first three people on a show called The One Show – it's going to be Sam Allardyce, Jamie Laing and Anneka rice.'

Seemingly unaware Iain was going to make the announcement, host Ben Shephard said: 'They are announcing it later and you have already announced it?'

Feigning shock, Iain replied: 'Oops, sorry.'

New addition: In a further shake up on the show, pro dancer Oti Mabuse's sister Motsi will be joining the panel following Darcey Bussell's exit from the programme

There's been a shake-up amid the pro dancers this year, as well as the judging panel.

Chinese dancer Nancy Xu has joined the pros, who finally kicked off rehearsals for the new series on Tuesday.

Confirming the news on her 28th birthday, Nancy gushed that it was a 'dream come true' to land a job on the show, as she replaces Pasha Kovalev who quit the show earlier this year.

It's all change behind the judging desk too, with pro dancer Oti Mabuse's sister Motsi taking over from exiting judge Dame Darcey Bussell.

STRICTLY COME DANCING 2019: WHO ARE THE STARS?

Doing the funny fandango: Chris is known for his career in comedy

Name: Chris Ramsey

Age: 32

Famous for? Comedian and TV presenter

About Chris: With two series of The Chris Ramsey Show under his belt, he is also a regular face on other entertainment shows such as Celebrity Juice, Never Mind the Buzzcocks, 8 Out of 10 Cats and Live at the Comedy Store. He has also appeared on TV hosting Stand Up Central, and I’m a Celebrity: Extra Camp. In addition to his television work, Chris has also completed sell-out tours across the UK. Chris finished touring the UK last year with his 106 date stand-up tour Chris Ramsay Live 2018: The Just Happy To Get Out of the House Tour.

Chris says: 'I’m both excited and absolutely terrified to be doing the show. You will not find me on the dance floor at parties, you will find me at the buffet table. All night. At my wedding I danced with my wife; that one song took about 6 months practice, and I definitely stood on her feet a couple of times. So I’m looking forward to the possibility of making a fool of myself in front of millions of people… there better be a buffet after the live shows!'

Waltzing from Walford: Emma plays Honey Mitchell on EastEnders

Name: Emma Barton

Age: 42

Famous for? Playing Honey Mitchell in EastEnders from 2005 to 2008, then returning to the roll from 2014 to present.

About Emma: As well as many on screen roles, Emma is also an accomplished stage actress with theatre credits including: Roxie Hart in Chicago; Dolly in the National Theatre’s production of One Man Two Guvnors; Vera in Doctor in the House; Lily in Annie; Marty in Grease; Eileen in Over the Moon. She recently ran the London Marathon as one of Dame Barbara Windsor’s ‘Revolutionaries’, in aid of Dementia Revolution.

Emma says: 'As possibly one of the biggest Strictly fans on the planet, I still can’t believe this is happening. I’m very much a dance around your handbag kinda girl, but now I've been given this wonderful opportunity to learn all the different styles of dancing from the very best in the business. So, I’m whipping off Honey's Minute Mart tabard & diving right in to all the glitter & sparkle. From Albert Square to the Strictly dance floor - I just can’t wait!'

From football to foxtrot: David is a goalkeeper, artist and pundit

Name: David James MBE

Age: 48

Famous for? Former England No.1 goalkeeper.

About David: Starting his career at Watford, David went on to play for a number of clubs including Liverpool, where he lifted the League Cup in 1994-95, and Portsmouth, whom he helped to FA Cup success in 2007-08. He amassed 53 caps for his country over an international career spanning 13 years and was first choice at both Euro 2004 and the 2010 World Cup. David, who has worked as a football analyst for the BBC & BT Sport, was awarded an MBE in 2012 for services to football and charity, and hung up his boots in 2013 after finishing his career at Icelandic club IBV. Aside from football James has also modelled for Giorgio Armani and H&M as well as being an avid artist, and was the illustrator on the book Harry's Magic Pockets: The Circus.

David says: 'I'm really excited to be on Strictly this year. Not just competing against this year's stars, but being compared to previous sport stars from previous Strictly seasons. I have some big shoes to fill, #LetsGetLive.'

From the Tube to the twist: Saffron Barker is a YouTube star 

Name: Saffron Barker

Age: 19

Famous for? Boasts over two million YouTube subscribers 

About Saffron: Famous for her blend of make up, shopping and challenge videos on YouTube, the teen has made an estimated $1million since she started to make videos in 2015.

She released her book My Perfectly Filtered Life in 2018.

Before kick starting her solo YouTube career in 2015, Saffron was a part of a girl band called ‘Born2Blush’ with friends Libby Whitehouse, Jazmine Tiley and Georgia McNarmara. 

The teenager only turned 19 a week before her Strictly announcement and lives at home with her mum, dad and three brothers 

Saffron says: 'Everyone keeps thinking I'm going to be really good,' 

'Sorry to disappoint everyone but I don't think I'm going to be. I'd rate myself maybe a four, that's not great!'

 

From the Rovers Return  to the rumba: Former Corrie star  Catherine Tyldesley

Name: Catherine Tyldesley

Age: 35

Famous for? Starring as Eva Price on Coronation Street from 2011-2018.

About Catherine: Hailing from Walkden, Greater Manchester, the stage and screen star's acting credits include Holby City, Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps, Sorted, Shameless and Trollied. She is best known for playing barmaid Eva Price on Corrie from 2011 until she left the role last summer to pursue different roles and spend more time with her young family. Catherine lives in Manchester with her personal trainer husband Tom Pitford and their son Alfie, four. Alongside acting, Catherine is a talented singer, releasing an album in 2016. 

Catherine says: 'I’m thrilled to be a part of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. I’m a huge fan of the show. It’ll be my biggest challenge to date as I’m not much of a dancer, but I’ve always wanted to learn the skill and the time feels right! I’m nervous as hell but super excited to work with such talented professionals. Hold onto your jazz shoes... mine is sure to be a bumpy/clumsy/fun ride!'   

Breakfast to ballroom: BBC sports presenter Mike Bushell

Name: Mike Bushell

Age: 53

Famous for? Presenting the sports coverage on BBC Breakfast.

About Mike: The sports presenter has been working for the BBC for nearly 30 years, after first starting out as a trainee reporter on BBC Radio Solent. He moved to BBC Breakfast after working for the 24-hour News channel. He also made headlines after a hilarious gaffe saw him tumble into a swimming pool during a live segment for the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Mike also holds the world record for crossing one mile of water in a large inflatable ball in 1 hour 57 seconds. He married second wife Emily in May 2019, and has three daughters from his first marriage.

Mike says: 'I am so excited to be joining this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. I’ve heard so many wonderful things from colleagues over the years so thrilled I’m now getting the chance. I know I will completely throw myself into the whole experience and I’m sure will love it from start to finish. I may have tried and profiled over 500 sports over the years in my Saturday morning BBC Breakfast slot but think the Strictly challenge could be the greatest. Bring on the glitter!'

From CBBC to cha cha cha: CBBC presenter Karim Zeroual  

Name: Karim Zeroual 

Age: 25 

Famous for? Presenting CBBC and starring in The Sparticle Mystery.  

About Karim: Karim is best known for his presenting duties on CBBC after joining the children's television brand in 2014, he has also hosted BBC Young Dancer and Wimbledon Live. The talented 25-year-old is also currently filming a CBBC documentary, A Week to Beat the World. Karim rose to fame as a child in the West End, he has previously performed in the likes of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, The Far Pavillions and The Lion King. The presenter is also known for his acting credits after starring in EastEnders and as Sadiq in The Sparticle Mystery for three series from 2011 to 2015.

Karim says: 'To be offered the chance to take part in Strictly is dumbfounding, I’m pinching myself! I’m so excited to be Strictlified. I want THE LOT. The skimpiest of clothes, the widest of flares, the brightest of colours and the tallest Cuban heel a guy can find! The more flamboyant the better… sequins galore please!' 

From Longleat to the Lindy Hop: Viscountess Weymouth Emma Thynn

Name: Viscountess Weymouth Emma Thynn

Age: 33 

Famous for? Businesswoman, chef, model and philanthropist.

About Emma: Raised in South Kensington where she was head girl at Queen's Gate School. She later attended University College London where she studied History of Art. Following her marriage in 2013 to Ceawlin Thynn, Viscount Weymouth, Emma became the chatelaine of the Longleat Estate in Wiltshire. In 2015 Emma launched 'Emma's Kitchen' at Longleat, a space for her to share her love of food and cooking using the backdrop of the original kitchens within Longleat House. In addition, Emma is a contributing editor for British Vogue.

Emma says: 'I absolutely love watching Strictly every weekend and I can’t believe that I’m getting the chance to be on this series. I know it will be such an amazing experience from start to finish. I can’t wait for the dancing and the fabulous outfits!' 

Who's next? The rest of the contestants are typically drip-fed to the public on various TV and radio shows across the UK over the month of August...

 

Daily Mail UK