Chris Appleton is a world-renowned conceptual hair stylist known for his impeccable attention to detail and creative vision. Named a Hair Star by Vogue UK, Chris is highly sought after by some of the biggest names in music, entertainment, fashion, and advertising.
His work has been showcased on covers and in major features for publications including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, Grazia, L’Officiel Paris, and more. His celebrity clients include Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, Sofía Vergara, Ariana Grande, and Katy Perry. He recently made the New York Times Best Sellers list for his debut memoir Your Roots Don’t Define You.
Here’s what he had to say about taking part in this year’s series…
Share this article with someone via Whatsapp:
How do you feel about joining the Strictly class of 2026?
It’s an incredible opportunity, and I’m genuinely honoured to be part of the 2026 class alongside some incredible celebrities and dancers who I can’t wait to meet! I’ve always believed in pushing yourself and embracing new challenges, so this felt like the perfect chance to do exactly that.
I’m especially excited to join the Strictly family this year in particular, and to meet Emma, Johannes and Josh as they host the show for the first time.
What made you say yes to Strictly?
I’ve loved watching Strictly for as long as I can remember, so when the opportunity came along, it felt like one I couldn’t pass up. I’ve always believed in saying yes to new challenges, especially the ones that push you outside your comfort zone. That’s something I’ve always done throughout my career, however dancing is something completely different for me, and that’s exactly what makes it so exciting.
One thing I’m not a stranger to is showbiz glam, so I’m really excited to wear the incredible outfits and try out different looks each week!
What are you most looking forward to?
I really cannot wait to get stuck into the live shows. There’s something really special about performing in front of an audience, especially when it’s on live TV! It’ll definitely be nerve-wracking, but I think that’s what makes it even more exciting. I’m also so excited to meet my dance partner! The dancers on Strictly are always legendary and I can’t wait to see who I’ll be working alongside and learning from.
What are you most nervous about?
I keep having a recurring dream that the show begins, and I’m out there on the dancefloor in front of the studio audience and cameras… and suddenly I forget all my moves. So fingers crossed that doesn’t happen!
Do you have a signature dance move?
Definitely the dad dance. I’m not sure how much I’ll be able to bring that one out, or if it’s something anyone should see…
If you could perform any iconic Strictly routine from past series, which would it be?
Jill Halfpenny and Darren Bennett’s Jive in 2004! It’s known as one of the greatest routines of all time and rightly so. Jill absolutely smashed it with a perfect score of 40, so if I can get anywhere close to that it’d be incredible.
How did your family and friends react when you told them?
They were absolutely thrilled. I think they’re even more excited than I am! Everyone has been so supportive from the moment I told them. Strictly is such an iconic show that so many people have grown up watching, so getting the chance to be part of it is really special. They’ve all been encouraging me every step of the way, and I know they’ll be cheering me on throughout the competition.
Is there anyone in particular – whether family or friend – who you’re doing Strictly for?
My kids and my mum were definitely the most excited. They’ve always loved Strictly, so when I told them I was doing the show, they couldn’t believe it. Seeing how happy and supportive they were made saying yes feel even more special. I’m so excited to see my family in the audience cheering me on.
What are you hoping to get out of the experience?
I’m hoping to come away having learned a completely new skill and with memories that will stay with me forever. I want to enjoy every moment, challenge myself, embrace the experience and hopefully surprise myself with what I’m capable of.
Have you had any advice from any former contestants?
My friend Chrishell has done Dancing with The Stars in the US. The best piece of advice she gave me was to just have fun and enjoy every bit, because it goes so quickly.
What would be your dream song to dance to?
One Moment in Time by Whitney Houston.
Have you met any of your fellow Strictly 2026 contestants before?
I haven’t, but I’m looking forward to meeting everyone and making new friendships along this journey! It was so exciting seeing the announcements and finding out who I’d be dancing alongside. It’s going to be so fun meeting some of the iconic names from our screens and people I’ve grown up watching too.
Do you have any backstage rituals to get you in the zone?
Calling my kids will definitely be my number one ritual. They will encourage me and help me to get into the zone and focus on what I’m about to do, as well as just remembering to have fun. I know I’ll be thinking of them when I’m out on the dancefloor.
How would your family/friends describe your dancing skills?
Any friends and family who have danced with me at parties or at home, I’d say would hopefully describe my dancing skills as always having fun! However, my kids might say otherwise.
You have friends who have taken part in Dancing with the Stars in the US. What made you want to take part in Strictly instead?
I have friends who’ve taken part in Dancing with the Stars in the US, but for me, Strictly felt like the right fit. Being from the UK, there’s something really special about taking part in such an iconic British show – it genuinely feels like coming home to my roots.
Having my family here as well makes it even more meaningful, because they’re so excited to support me throughout the whole journey. I can’t wait to be in London and head back home to Leicester too.
Never miss a thing, subscribe to us for free…