29 May 2023 , 11:57
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Iconic 80s pop legend Shakin’ Stevens has signed up for the next series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Sources claim that in recent years, bosses behind the show had been asking over and over but are now convinced that the legendary musician will sign on the dotted line.
Insiders claim that the star, 75, has been at the top of list for possible celebrities every year due to him being a national treasure and being known for his slick movements.
But it could have finally paid off for chiefs at the BBC who are said to be in talks with Shakin' Stevens, best known for his hit Merry Christmas Everyone.
Shakin' Stevens was a hugely successful artist in the 1980s (Redferns)
The singer recently spoke about overhauling his lifestyle after a heart attack (WireImage)“Bosses have spent years trying to get Shaky on the show and are hopeful he’ll finally say yes,” a source told the Daily Star.
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“Shakey is considered a national treasure and is certain to be popular,” they added.
It’s hoped that the singer, real name Mike Barratt, will be a hit with viewers young and old, and bosses are hoping he can be “the older contestant who surprises everyone”.
He shot to fame in the 1980s with his Elvis-inspired look and rock/pop music, winning over fans with his catchy tunes and hip-shaking moves.
The series is set to return later this year (BBC)The singer, who has three children and five grandchildren, has recently overhauled his lifestyle after suffering a heart attack, and quit smoking and drinking in an effort to recover from the near-death experience.
“I had a heart attack in July 2010. I’d been picking up bags of stones, and I knew something was wrong. I fell asleep and didn’t wake up. Luckily my wife Sue gave me CPR and called the ambulance,” he told Femail.
“It was a huge wake-up call,” he added.
Shakin’ Stevens' rumoured addition to the line-up comes after it was reported Loose Women star Sophie Morgan was in talks to become the show’s first-ever contestant to use a wheelchair.
The presenter, 38, is paralysed from the waist down, and according to The Sun, she would be the “ideal” star to join this year’s celebrities.
England Lioness Jill Scott has also been linked to the hit show, as well as Amy Nuttall and Matt Willis.