Strictly 2021: Who is new contestant Rhys Stephenson?

Rhys is buzzing to get dancing (Picture: BBC)

Rhys Stephenson is the latest addition to the Strictly Come Dancing line-up, and if you’ve got CBBC-obsessed kids, you’ll definitely know his face.

But for those who haven’t been tuning in, here’s everything you need to know about the latest member of the Strictly class of 2021.

Rhys is the face of the BBC’s children’s channel CBBC, and presents live from the CBBC studios.

The Londoner has been a presenter on some of the channel’s biggest programmes, including the legendary series Blue Petre, and shows including Newsround, Dengineers and Saturday Mash-Up!

Rhys has also hosted the annual Blue Peter book awards, has contributed to CBBC’s Children In Need and Comic Relief coverage, and has worked with Bafta Kids to present online content for children.

The 28-year-old began his presenting career in 2013 when he began hosting on his university’s television channel, and in the same year, he joined the National Youth Theatre, where he performed alongside Matt Smith, Hugh Bonneville and Jessica Hynes.

Outside of hosting, Rhys is an ambassador for Place2Be, a charity which provides mental health services in schools.

The BBC star may be new to the Strictly dancefloor, but he certainly has friends he can get advice from, having supported fellow children’s presenter Karim Zheroual, who reached the finals in 2019.

He has also been joined by reigning professional champion Oti Mabuse on CBBC – so could he have already asked for some tips?

Speaking about his new gig, Rhys said: ‘I am BUZZING to be a part of Strictly Come Dancing 2021. I have dreamt about being on this show, and I know for a fact that it is going to exceed every expectation. I cannot wait.’

More: Strictly Come Dancing

Rhys is the fifth celebrity to be announced, alongside McFly’s Tom Fletcher, Peep Show star Robert Webb, presenter AJ Odudu and Great British Bake Off winner John Whaite, who will be one half of the show’s first all-male partnership.

Strictly returns to BBC One later this year.

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