Boxer Nicola Adams Is Set To Star In Strictly Come Dancing's First Same-Sex Couple

Olympic Gold medalist Nicola Adams to make Strictly history as one half of the shows first same-sex couple.

Last year the show was praised highly for featuring a routine performed together by two of their male professional dancers in one of the episodes, although, they have never had a same-sex partnership compete before now.

Speaking on BBC Breakfast earlier this morning Nicola said "I think it's really important. It's definitely a time for change, it's definitely a time to move on and be more diverse, and this is a brilliant step in the right direction." She also revealed that it was in fact her suggestion to have a female partner when producers asked her to join the line up, saying "They wanted to know if I wanted to be on the show and I said, 'Yeah, but I want to dance with another female dance partner."

The 37 year old shared a video to her Instagram this morning expressing her excitement, captioning the post "I’m really excited to be joining this year’s incredible line-up for @bbcstrictly. I’m a huge fan of the show and am thrilled to be part of something that holds such a special place in so many people’s hearts. You all know me from my work in the ring, but I'll be every bit as passionate and dedicated on the dance-floor too. I also wanted to thank the BBC for supporting me and making me the first ever female-lead; I’m so happy to be part of the movement for change, diversity and breaking boundaries in the entertainment industry. 🏳️‍🌈"

Also confirmed to join this years Strictly line-up is Radio 1's Clara Amfo, former professional American Footballer Jason Bell, Max George from the boyband The Wanted, Good Morning Britain presenter Ranvir Singh and Men Behaving Badly star Caroline Quentin.