Model and former Miss Universe Ireland Aishah Akorede is the first celebrity to be confirmed for the show, airing on RTE in January.
“I’m mostly excited about learning how to dance like a ballroom dancer, to be honest,” she said. “I did a little bit of ballet growing up, but it’s nothing compared to any of this… I did ballet from the age of four to fifteen, but I had to stop.
“But during the pandemic, I ended up going back to ballet at the age of 24. I’m 25 now and I’m the old lady in the class, which is crazy to say that a 25-year-old is an old lady!”
Aishah Akorede
Aishah went on: “I’m not a very competitive person, and people always think that girls in pageantry are really competitive.
“Everything I do in life, I kind of do with no expectations and with the aim of just enjoying the experience and whatever comes out of it.
“So hopefully I do come out on top, but even if I don’t, I’ll just genuinely be so grateful for the opportunity.”
This first announcement comes after the news that pro dancer Karen Byrne will be taking on the role as judge for the next series of the show.
Karen has won the coveted glitterball trophy twice, most recently in 2024 with Paralympian Jason Smyth and in 2018 with singer Jake Carter.
Pic: Brian McEvoy
Karen said, “I am absolutely delighted to join the judges panel for my eighth season of Dancing with the Stars. Having been lucky enough to win it twice and working with all my incredible dance partners, it will feel strange sitting on the other side of the desk.
“I can’t believe it – I have to pinch myself! It doesn’t feel real – I don’t think it will feel real until I sit in the chair. I’ve always looked at the judges seats and thought that must be the best seat in the house. Oh my god I get to hold a paddle!
“The DWTS journey is the best, this show is in my veins – I absolutely love it. I feel so honoured to now be on the judges panel with the fabulous Loraine Barry, Brian Redmond and Arthur Gourounlian. Let the madness commence… please can it be January already?”
