Zara McDermott is the seventh celebrity contestant confirmed for the brand new series of Strictly Come Dancing. The multi-award-winning entertainment show, produced by BBC Studios, will return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer for its new series this autumn, once again bringing glitter, glamour and glorious dancing to homes across the nation.

Zara McDermott is a broadcaster and content creator.

Zara was a government policy advisor, working for the Department of Energy and Climate Change and Department of Education before appearing on Love Island in 2018.

One of Zara’s biggest passions is making documentaries that inspire conversation and educate young people on hard hitting issues, she has fronted five successful BBC films so far: Revenge Porn, Uncovering Rape Culture, Disordered Eating, and Gaia: A Death on Dancing Ledge. Her other broadcasting work includes presenting the entertainment show Love In The Flesh on BBC Three.

Zara’s work for young people has been recognised on several occasions; she was invited to Clarence House by the Duchess of Cornwall and Refuge charity and worked with the Duchess on a visit to a SARC (Sexual Assault Referral Centre). Alongside this, she has worked with the government and the Home Office on several campaigns to end violence against women and girls, most notably fronting a campaign that changed the law for victims of digital abuse. Zara is also an ambassador for the Shaping Us campaign for the Centre of Early Childhood, which was launched by Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales.

Zara McDermott said: "I am so excited to be joining the world of Strictly! I grew up watching it every year with my nan and she was the biggest Strictly fan. We would dance around the house and I have such fond memories of that time in my life. I even remember the first ever series, and being mesmerised by all the beautiful dresses! I can’t wait to throw myself into this experience and start training. It’s going to be incredible."

The news was revealed on Monday 7 August on Going Home with Vick and Jordan on BBC Radio 1.

The remaining celebrity contestants joining the new series will be announced in due course.