Strictly kosher dancing! Talent show reveals Jewish trio

Strictly Come Dancing will have a distinctly kosher feel this year, with three Jewish stars set to strut their stuff on the popular telly talent show.

Barrister Robert Rinder, the reality courtroom star of ITV’s Judge Rinder, model Daisy Lowe and Birds Of A Feather actress Leslie Joseph were all revealed among the list of 15 celebrities hoping to cha-cha their way to victory.

Rinder, 38, said: “The only thing I knew would make my grandmother more proud than watching my TV courtroom was to see me dressed up in white tie doing the foxtrot. So, although I suspect the latter will be far more difficult, I am doing Strictly Come Dancing for her.”

Discussing his fellow contestants, Rinder said he had initially thought pop star Anastacia was “the surviving princess of Russia”, while the name Melvin Odoom “sounds like something from Lord of the Rings”.

Model Daisy Lowe, daughter of singer and fashion designer Pearl Lowe, also expressed her delight at being invited onto the dance floor.

“I am used to being on the catwalk and campaigns of major fashion brands with lots of eyes on me, but this is completely different from anything I have ever done before! My family and friends and I adore Strictly, so when the chance came up to take part – I jumped at it! I am itching to get started,” said the 27-year-old.

Meanwhile Joseph, 70, revealed her excitement at taking part in the “iconic” show.

“I am scared and excited and apprehensive and thrilled to be a part of this wonderful show and I will try my best and enjoy this amazing experience!” she added.

Other contestants revealed in this year’s line up include former shadow chancellor Ed Balls, Pop Idol winner Will Young and World Champion long jumper Greg Rutherford, who has just returned from the Olympics in Rio.

The 15 celebrities will discover which professional dancer they will be paired with during the launch show on 3 September.