Overview

• Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, known as Nitro on Gladiators, has reportedly signed up for the 2025 Strictly Come Dancing after impressing producers during the 2024 Christmas special.
• A Strictly spokeswoman declined to comment on speculation, indicating the BBC has not officially confirmed his participation.
• Producers expect Nitro’s Gladiators fanbase to help attract a younger audience when the series returns this autumn.
• The 2025 professional roster will see most pros return, including Dianne Buswell and Nadiya Bychkova, while Giovanni Pernice will not be among the competitors.
• Judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood are lined up to return, with Horwood’s future beyond this series remaining uncertain.