Strictly newcomer Maddie Ingoldsby: from West End Annie to ballroom champion
Maddie Ingoldsby, the 21-year-old ballroom sensation from Bournemouth, has joined the ranks of Strictly Come Dancing as one of five new professionals, and has already been handed a celebrity partner for her debut series. The UK National Ballroom Champion and eight-time Amateur 10-Dance World Champion will dance with Love Island star Cach Mercer, a pairing that has generated considerable interest among the show's loyal viewers.
Miss Ingoldsby described her appointment as 'truly a dream come true', saying: 'My heart is so full of gratitude, excitement, and anticipation as I begin this incredible new chapter. Dance has always been where I feel most myself, and to now share my heart, my creativity, and my love for it on a show that has inspired millions is an honour beyond words.'
Who is Maddie Ingoldsby and how did she become famous?
Long before her Strictly debut, Miss Ingoldsby was already a familiar face to British audiences. As a child, she played the title role in the West End production of Annie, before making her television debut on Strictly: It Takes Two. She later performed in a group number on the main show's Christmas special, a taste of things to come.
Her unexpected role in the film Last Christmas
At just 14 years old, Miss Ingoldsby landed a surprise acting role in the hit film Last Christmas, starring Emma Thompson and Emilia Clarke. She played a younger version of the lead character Kate, a former singer portrayed by the Game of Thrones actress. The childhood flashback was filmed at St Sophia Cathedral in West London, where Miss Ingoldsby performed a rendition of Heal the Pain by George Michael and Paul McCartney, backed by a children's choir.
The Henley Standard reported at the time that Miss Ingoldsby had been singing, dancing and acting since the age of six. The publication also revealed that she forgot the lyrics during the performance, owing to nerves, jet lag and a cold. Despite this, she was accepted for the role.
Reflecting on the experience, she said: 'I was so excited when I heard the good news and the shoot itself was amazing. I was treated like royalty. They had breakfast waiting for me first thing in the morning and Emma was in the room when I was having my hair and make-up done. She was so lovely, like a big mum figure, and was hugging everyone and saying what a great job they'd done. She was very down-to-earth, which you wouldn't think from some of the roles she has done, but she's very different in real life.'
Despite enjoying the filming, Miss Ingoldsby made clear her priorities lay with dance, adding: 'I really enjoy being a triple threat rather than doing just the one thing and I don't want to narrow anything down.'
Why does Maddie Ingoldsby have a scar on her face?
Many Strictly fans have noticed a scar on Miss Ingoldsby's face. While she has not publicly addressed how she acquired it, she has used TikTok to respond to those who have questioned why she has not had it removed. In a video titled Embracing Scars: A Personal Journey of Acceptance, she wrote: 'I love this trend, it's a part of me now.'
Her response has drawn widespread support from followers. One commented: 'I actually think it's beautiful, uniqueness in a world so desperate for everyone to look the same as everyone else.' Another said: 'You are absolutely gorgeous, that is a fact, scar or no scar.' A third added: 'You are perfect because you are unique!'
What can viewers expect from Maddie Ingoldsby on Strictly?
Miss Ingoldsby brings a formidable competitive pedigree to the Strictly floor, having been crowned World Rising Star and Under 21 World Ballroom Champion. Her partnership with Cach Mercer will be watched closely, as the show continues to blend traditional ballroom excellence with the modern celebrity format that has made it a national institution.
For a young woman who has already trodden the boards of the West End and graced the silver screen, Strictly represents another chapter in a remarkably assured career. Whether she can translate her competitive success into the public vote remains to be seen, but her early promise suggests she will be one to watch this series.