Harry Aikines-Aryeetey confirmed for Strictly Christmas Special
The Gladiator and Olympian will be taking on the ballroom.
The glittering Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special is back, ready to turn the ballroom into a dazzling winter wonderland. This year’s all-star lineup continues to build excitement, with Harry Aikines-Aryeetey—better known as Nitro from Gladiators—unveiled as the fourth celebrity set to take the festive stage.
The announcement was made on Strictly: It Takes Two on BBC Two and iPlayer, where it was revealed that Harry will be partnered with professional dancer Nancy Xu. Together, they’ll aim to dazzle judges and audiences alike with their high-energy festive performance.
A celebrated athlete, Harry is no stranger to competition. Known for his electrifying role as Nitro in the BBC One reboot of Gladiators, he is also a decorated sprinter for Team GB, holding a string of accolades, including multiple European and Commonwealth gold medals. From winning the 2005 BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year award to competing in two Olympic Games, Harry’s sporting career is packed with achievements.
Harry shared his excitement about swapping his trainers for dancing shoes this Christmas:
“STRICTLY... ARE YOU READY?! Nitro’s blasting onto the Ballroom floor this Christmas! I’m swapping my trainers for dancing shoes, and trust me, I’m bringing the power, the energy and the moves! This December I’m gonna light up that dancefloor and crank the Christmas spirit all the way UP. Let’s do this!”
The Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special will feature six celebrity-professional pairs performing show-stopping routines filled with festive cheer and holiday sparkle. Judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Shirley Ballas will critique the performances, but the ultimate winner will be decided by the studio audience.
With Harry’s announcement, four celebrity participants have now been revealed, and fans eagerly await the unveiling of the remaining stars. Who will rise to the occasion and claim the coveted Christmas trophy?
Tune in this Christmas Day to find out!