Who is Chris Appleton? Meet Strictly Come Dancing 2026 contestant and hair stylist

After a long summer of Strictly Come Dancing cast announcements, the time has finally come to see the celebrities strut their stuff on the dance floor as the launch show fast approaches.

Among the starry line-up is celebrity hair stylist Chris Appleton, who joins the likes of Lacey Turner, Dani Dyer and Delta Goodrem, all of whom have been paired with their pro and have begun rehearsals.

The upcoming 24th season has had a revamp with a complete shuffle around of hosts. Following Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly's departures, Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe will be stepping up to the plate.

With a new dazzling and glitter-filled season of Strictly ahead, just who is Chris Appleton? Scroll down to learn more about the famous face.

Age: 43

Job: Hair stylist

Instagram: @chrisappleton1

Chris Appleton is an award-winning celebrity hairstylist who has worked closely with some of the biggest stars in the world.

He is perhaps best known for his work with Kim Kardashian, having helped create a number of the reality star and businesswoman's most recognisable hairstyles.

Appleton's other high-profile clients include Jennifer Lopez, Sofía Vergara, Ariana Grande and Katy Perry, while British Vogue has previously described him as a "Hair Star".

His work has also featured in publications including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, Grazia and L’Officiel Paris.

Appleton often features on Kim Kardashian's social media, so is a recognisable face to her followers as they are close friends as well as colleagues.

He also has a substantial following of his own online where he shares content about hair styling, his celebrity friends and snippets into his family life.

What has Chris Appleton said about Strictly Come Dancing?

Chris has "loved" watching Strictly Come Dancing for as long as he can remember and so felt like the opportunity was one he "couldn't pass up" when it came around.

"I’ve always believed in saying yes to new challenges, especially the ones that push you outside your comfort zone," he said.

"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!"

Strictly Come Dancing begins on Saturday 19 September at 7:25pm on BBC One and iPlayer.

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Authors

Phoebe Kowhai Barnes is a Freelance Writer who covers pop culture and entertainment programmes for the Radio Times. She previously worked as the Senior Assistant Editor at The Tab where she managed its local department. She obtained a BA (Hons) in English Literature from University of Nottingham.