Strictly Come Dancing 2019: Bez from Happy Mondays reportedly in talks to join line-up for new series

Happy Mondays‘s Bez is reportedly in talks to take part in this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing.

The BBC series is expected to begin in September, with Bez potentially joining radio host Chris Evans as one of its competitors, according to the Mirror.

Sources have stated that comedian Alan Carr is also being considered as a potential candidate for the show.

In 2016, Bez claimed that he could “go all the way” and win the dance competition if he was ever involved.

He added: “Dancing has made me famous and entertaining people is what I do best. I’ve lost count of the number of blokes who’ve come up over the years and said, ‘Thanks for making it OK for indie guys to get on the dance floor’.”

The percussionist and dancer, whose real name is Mark Berry, has made several appearances on reality television in the past, most memorably winning Celebrity Big Brother in 2005.

Sources also referenced Bez’s controversial appearance last year on BBC’s Bargain Hunt where the musician broke the rules of the contest, with his girlfriend turning up to the auction and buying all his lots.

“Yes, the ending of Bargain Hunt had to be re-shot but everyone took it in good humour. And Bez paid back his ill-gotten £8 winnings, so he is still in good favour,” a source claimed.

“The Bargain Hunt cheating scandal was talked about everywhere, even Gogglebox. If anything, it made the show. Everyone knows Bez would be a ratings hit on Strictly.”

Bez’s Happy Mondays bandmate Shaun Ryder claimed last October that he was considered for Strictly, but was dropped over concerns he would swear on live television.

Follow Independent Culture on Facebook for all the latest on Film, TV, Music, and more.