Balvinder Sopal, best known for her gripping portrayal of Suki Panesar-Unwin on EastEnders, is reportedly set to waltz into the ballroom this year as part of the new season of Strictly Come Dancing.
According to The Sun, the 46-year-old actress is being lined up to compete in the long-running BBC dance competition when it returns later in 2025.
“EastEnders has been a happy hunting ground for Strictly bosses since the show first aired,” a source revealed. “They believe Balvinder will be a huge hit with fans. She’s excited by the prospect too, as she feels viewers will see a different side to her.”
Balvinder has become a household name since joining EastEnders in 2020 as the sharp, complex, and fiercely protective Suki Panesar. Though initially introduced as a villain—going as far as faking cancer to manipulate her children—Suki’s story evolved into one of resilience and empowerment. She eventually broke free from her abusive husband Nish and embraced her identity, marrying her lover Eve Unwin after years of hiding her sexuality.
Her nuanced and emotionally rich performance earned her the Soap Superstar award at the Inside Soap Awards last year.
Before her EastEnders fame, Sopal made appearances in other British soaps, including Emmerdale, Coronation Street, and Doctors. Now, she joins a long line of EastEnders stars who’ve graced the Strictly dance floor, such as Rose Ayling-Ellis, Bobby Brazier, and Jamie Borthwick.
While the BBC is yet to confirm her appearance—saying only, “We don’t comment on speculation”—fans are already buzzing at the idea of seeing Balvinder swap Walford’s drama for glitter and paso dobles.
Strictly’s Staying Power
As Strictly Come Dancing celebrated its 20th anniversary last year, judge Anton Du Beke reflected on the show’s remarkable longevity:
“It’s unbelievable that it’s still going in this current climate and as strongly as it is,” he said. “People want something great they can watch together.”
With Balvinder Sopal possibly joining the 2025 cast, this season is shaping up to be another one worth gathering around the TV for.
Stay locked on ENT360News for the official Strictly cast reveal and more TV entertainment updates.
