STRICTLY Come Dancing star Shaun Wright-Phillips has revealed why he signed up on the BBC show – and what he refuses to wear.
The former England footballer, 44, as part of the Strictly 2026 line-up in July.
Shaun Wright-Phillips has revealed why he signed up for Strictly Come Dancing Credit: PA
In July, it was announced former England footballer Shaun would be stepping on the dance floor Credit: Rex
And ahead of the series launch, Shaun opened up about his decision to step onto the dance floor.
He told The Sun at the City Gaming Club esports event at GGX: “I wanted to learn something new.
“I for a similar reason. Don’t get me wrong, I’m really nervous – it’s out of my comfort zone.
“I know the hard work the dancers put into it but I’m excited for the journey and want to come out of it as a ballroom dancer.”
Shaun said he hopes to leave the Strictly Come Dancing experience “as a ballroom dancer” Credit: Getty
Shaun is the son of footballing legend Ian Wright – who adopted him in the 1980s Credit: BBC
When asked if he had any nerves, Shaun added: “We are going to find out.”
Elsewhere in the chat, the former Manchester City player addressed what outfits he might wear on Strictly.
He said: “I’ve already said I can’t put any red on. And I just hope I don’t have to wear anything outrageous.
“I’m not sure about sparkles – people ask me about the open shirts and I’m telling them my belly is not right for that.”
A source previously told The Sun of Shaun’s signing up: “Shaun is a well-known name and face to fans.
“He played for England in the 2010 World Cup and made lots of appearances in the Premier League.
“Strictly bosses are delighted to have landed Shaun as a contestant as footballers always bring a different audience to the show and often prove popular with viewers as underdogs in the competition.
“Also the producers are excited that Ian will appear in the studio audience regularly, and will no doubt be full of enthusiasm.”
BBC producers also expect’s 62-year-old sports legend dad – now a popular TV pundit – to be a regular studio guest on the live Saturday night show.
The pair are known to be extremely close since Ian adopted Shaun in the 1980s and fathered his younger half-brother Bradley.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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