EastEnders' Tamzin Outhwaite joins Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special

EastEnders star Tamzin Outhwaite is set to swap Albert Square for the Strictly Come Dancing ballroom this Christmas.

The 54-year-old actress, best known for her role as Mel Owen in the popular BBC soap, will be partnered with professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin for the festive edition of the hit dance show.

Competing against five other celebrities, she'll be performing a festive-themed routine in a bid to impress the judges and studio audience.

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Speaking about her upcoming appearance, Outhwaite said: "I’m so excited to swap the stage for the Strictly ballroom this Christmas."

She added: "I’m used to performing in front of a live audience but this is a whole new experience."

And it seems she's ready to embrace the glitz and glamour of the show, saying: "I can’t wait to immerse myself in all things glitter and sequins, let’s hope the judges show Nikita and I some extra festive cheer this Christmas."

Aside from EastEnders, Outhwaite has also starred as DCI Sasha Miller in New Tricks and appeared in Red Cap, Hotel Babylon and Murder Is Easy.

On the big screen, she's featured in films such as 2002’s Out Of Control and 2012’s Great Expectations alongside stars including Ralph Fiennes and Helena Bonham Carter. Her recent theatre roles include Abigail’s Party at the Theatre Royal Stratford East and the West End revival of Noises Off.

Joining Outhwaite on the Strictly Christmas special line-up are TV presenter and podcaster Vogue Williams, comedian Josh Widdicombe, athlete Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (known as Nitro in Gladiators) and Tayce, who will become the programme’s first drag artist contestant.

Outhwaite was revealed as the fifth celebrity contestant for the festive special during Wednesday evening's episode of Strictly spin-off, It Takes Two. The final participant will be unveiled on Thursday's episode of It Takes Two.

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