Hannah Waddingham is reportedly “in talks” with BBC bosses to join this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Sources claim that the Ted Lasso actress – who co-presented the Eurovision Song Contest last year and performed at this year’s BAFTAs – has been approached in recent weeks.
An insider told The Mirror that the star is seriously considering the offer and said: “Hannah would be an incredible signing for Strictly this year, and so far things are looking very positive.
“She loves the show – she has heard so much about it from Anton [Du Beke] – and is keen to do it. It’s just a question of whether or not it’s possible to fit it into her schedule.
“Obviously, it’s a very big commitment, and she is incredibly in demand at the moment. Hannah is fast approaching national treasure status, and the Strictly bosses know she’d be a smash hit with fans.
“So they are doing everything they can to make it work on their side, and hoping that they can encourage her to sign on the dotted line - it would be a real coup for them to get her on board.”
Hannah Waddingham starred as Rebecca Welton in Game of Thrones
HBO
Waddingham – who played Rebecca Welton in the HBO series – recently won an Emmy for the role and saw her rise to popularity.
Last year she presented the Olivier Awards, before teaming up with Graham Norton and Alesha Dixon to host Eurovision in May.
She went on to support friend Anton Du Beke at his London Palladium Show, An Evening with Anton Du Beke, and was a guest at his VIP after party.
She recently went to support Strictly professional Giovanni Pernice on his Let Me Entertain You tour and showed her support after his future on the show is in doubt.
Hannah's potential signing comes as Giovanni Pernice's future is in doubt
BBC
GB News has contacted the BBC for a comment.
Whilst BBC bosses are looking to see who they can bank for this year's show, behind the scenes, Pernice’s future is at risk.
Last year, his competition journey was cut short when Amanda Abbington pulled out of the competition, and shortly after revealed she had PTSD from their training sessions.
Soon after, it was claimed the Sherlock star demanded footage from her rehearsals with the Italian dancer – leaving more of his former celebrity partners to come forward.
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Hannah Waddingham set for Strictly Come Dancing
GETTY
Laura Whitmore, Ranvir Singh and Faye Tozer all discussed the impact of Pernice’s “strict” and “fiercely competitive” nature.
It was recently announced that the broadcaster is now “undecided” on whether or not to pair the dancer with one of this year's celebs.
The Sun claimed a source stated: “Giovanni has a meeting with Strictly on Thursday about his return later this year.
“They have not received any official complaints and are backing him. He is an accomplished pro dancer and it’s expected he will be taking his place in the formal line-up when it’s announced later this month.”
