Lawrence Robb today: Emmerdale star joins Strictly Come Dancing 2026 cast
Emmerdale actor Lawrence Robb has been official confirmed as the twelfth celebrity taking part in Strictly Come Dancing 2026. The 34-year-old Glaswegian actor, best known for playing Mackenzie 'Mack' Boyd on the ITV soap, will swap the Yorkshire Dales for the ballroom floor when the flagship entertainment show returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer this September.
What People Are Searching For
Following the official announcement across social media, fans have been eager to confirm who the latest addition to the 2026 line-up is and what background he brings to the dance floor. Many viewers recognised Robb from his prominent TV role in Emmerdale, but searches surged regarding his age, background, and previous stage experience ahead of the 24th series autumn launch.
What Is Confirmed
The BBC officially announced Robb's casting on Thursday 6 August, revealing him as the 12th confirmed contestant. Robb, who discovered his passion for performance at high school in Kilmacolm before studying at the Royal Scottish Academy, has built an impressive resume. Prior to playing Mackenzie Boyd on Emmerdale for the past six years, his credits included working alongside Billie Piper in I Hate Suzie, as well as West End roles in Legally Blonde The Musical and Mojo.
I don't know who’s more excited about this, me or my Mother. I can't quite believe that I am going to be getting my dancing shoes on this September on one of my favourite shows of all time!
Robb joins a growing roster of confirmed celebrities for the 2026 series:
- Lacey Turner (EastEnders actor)
- Dani Dyer (Broadcaster and TV personality)
- Delta Goodrem (Singer-songwriter and actor)
- Chris Appleton (Celebrity hair stylist)
- Cach Mercer (Love Island winner and digital creator)
- Will Best (TV presenter)
- Dame Sarah Storey (Paralympic champion)
- Jaime Winstone (Actor)
- Bethany Antonia (House of the Dragon star)
- Shaun Wright-Phillips (Former England footballer and pundit)
- Graeme Hall (TV dog trainer)
What Is Unconfirmed
While 12 names are locked in, the exact launch date for the series has not been disclosed by the BBC beyond a September start. Industry estimates suggest a launch date of 19 September, followed by live shows starting on 26 September. Furthermore, professional dance pairings have not been revealed and will remain unknown until the pre-recorded launch episode airs.
The Bigger Picture
The 2026 series represents a major refresh for the long-running BBC staple. In addition to a updated logo, the presenting lineup has been revamped following the departures of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The show will now be fronted by a trio consisting of Emma Willis, comedian Josh Widdicombe, and professional dancer Johannes Radebe. Five new professional dancers — Aleksandra Isaeva, Cristian Priori, Lethabo Monametsi, Maddie Ingoldsby, and Mark Karmalita — are also joining the line-up.
Latest Status
With 12 celebrities now confirmed out of an expected 15, the final three contestants will be revealed across BBC platforms over the coming weeks. Viewers can currently add Strictly Come Dancing to their watchlist on BBC iPlayer ahead of its autumn premiere.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Lawrence Robb on Strictly Come Dancing?
- Lawrence Robb is a 34-year-old Scottish actor best known for playing Mackenzie 'Mack' Boyd on the ITV soap Emmerdale since 2020.
- How many celebrities are on Strictly Come Dancing 2026?
- A total of 12 celebrities have been officially announced so far, with three more expected to complete the traditional 15-person line-up.
- When does Strictly Come Dancing 2026 start?
- The BBC has confirmed the show returns in September on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, though an exact launch night date has not been officially announced.
- Who is presenting Strictly Come Dancing 2026?
- The new series will be hosted by a presenting trio made up of Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe.
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