Strictly star reveals he's landed new job on Escape To The Country as he joins show line up
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A STRICTLY Come Dancing star has revealed he's landed an exciting new role - joining the popular BBC daytime show's line-up of presenters.
The TV favourite will now be helping hopeful buyers swap city life for the countryside in his brand new gig.
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Richie Anderson landed an exciting new role on Escape to the Country
Credit: BBC
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Richie made history as part of an all-male partnership with pro dancer Giovanni Pernice on Strictly Come Dancing in 2022
Credit: PA
The star is Richie Anderson, who fans will remember from his fun-filled stint on Strictly in 2022.
Richie, who's also known for his work on BBC Radio 2 and The One Show, couldn't hide his excitement as he announced the career move to Escape to the Country.
Richie won over viewers during his time on Strictly Come Dancing, where he made history as part of an all-male partnership with pro dancer Giovanni Pernice.
Although the pair were eliminated in Week 3, Richie's infectious energy, dazzling costumes, and emotional connection to the show left a lasting impression on fans.
He later described his Strictly journey as 'life-changing' and said it gave him the confidence to pursue more on-screen opportunities.
He'll now be guiding house-hunters through chocolate-box villages and rolling hills as they search for their perfect rural escape.
Richie said: 'It's a real honour to be joining such an iconic TV programme and a brilliant family of presenters.
"Escape to the Country is one of the reasons I moved out of London for a quieter, more rural way of life.
"I'm excited to pass on my love of the countryside to our house hunters, and it's a privilege to share such a personal experience with them and help tell their story.
"My first episode is in my stomping ground in The Midlands, an area that is often overlooked when it comes to country life, so I can't wait to show you some hidden gems.'
Celebrity Masterchef's Richie Anderson serves up a vegetable curry in the first round
Richie joins regular Escape to the Country presenters Alistair Appleton, Briony May Williams, Denise Nurse, Ginny Buckley, Jules Hudson, Nicki Chapman, Sonali Shah and Steve Brown who will all feature across the new series.
The hit BBC show is back with a bumper 50-episode series, giving viewers plenty of chances to soak up the stunning sights of the British countryside — and snoop around some seriously dreamy homes.
Each episode sees a hopeful buyer swap the chaos of city life for rolling hills and fresh country air, with a presenter in tow to help them find the one.
In his very first episode, Richie returns to his roots to help a pair of fellow Brummies hunt down the perfect character cottage in the heart of the Midlands.
Strictly 2025 rumoured line-up
Angellica Bell: A familiar face on British television, Angellica is a seasoned TV presenter known for her work on shows like CBBC and The One Show. She's no stranger to reality TV, having recently appeared on Celebrity Big Brother.
Paul C. Brunson: The charismatic relationship expert and matchmaker from Married At First Sight UK, Paul is known for his insightful advice and warm personality. Swapping the sofa for the samba, he's tipped to bring a touch of class and intelligence to the competition.
Dani Dyer: Rising to fame as the winner of Love Island in 2018, Dani has remained in the public eye with various TV appearances. The daughter of actor Danny Dyer, she's reportedly agreed to take part.
Vicky Pattison: A reality TV stalwart who first found fame on Geordie Shore, Vicky has successfully transitioned into a presenter and author. Having supported her friend Pete Wicks on the show last year, it seems she's ready to put on her own dancing shoes.
Ashley Cain: Former footballer and reality TV star from Ex on the Beach, Ashley has more recently become known for his incredible charity work and campaigning.
Stacey Solomon: Known for her down-to-earth charm and successful BBC shows like Sort Your Life Out, fans are eager to see if she can translate her infectious energy to the ballroom.
Georgia Toffolo: Best known as "Toff" from Made in Chelsea and for winning I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! in 2017, Georgia is a seasoned reality TV star.
Thomas Skinner: The lively entrepreneur who became a fan favourite on The Apprentice in 2019, Thomas is known for his larger-than-life personality and catchphrase "Bosh!". Despite admitting to no dancing experience, he's reportedly "up for giving it his best shot."
Tom Parker Bowles: The renowned food writer and critic, and son of Queen Camilla, is a surprising but intriguing name on the rumour list. A regular on MasterChef, it remains to be seen if his culinary precision translates to ballroom finesse.
Sir Mo Farah: The legendary Olympic long-distance runner is considered a national treasure.
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink: The former Premier League football striker, famous for his time at Leeds and Chelsea, is another sporting name being linked.
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey: Known as "Nitro" from the BBC's Gladiators reboot and a former Team GB sprinter, Harry has already shown off some moves on the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special.
Balvinder Sopal: The talented actress known for her role as Suki Panesar in EastEnders, Balvinder would follow a long line of successful soap stars on Strictly.
Jake Brown: The winner of The Traitors series three, Jake's name has emerged as a potential contestant.
Stefan Dennis: The actor, 66, has played six-times married Ramsay Street lothario Paul Robinson since the first episode in 1985 and now the soap is coming to an end, his schedule is clear.
John Comerford, Head of Naked West (a Fremantle label) said: 'For over two decades, Escape to the Country has brought heart and heritage to viewers.
"It celebrates the character of the British countryside and the nation's superb historic rural housing stock.
"The series also helps real people take a leap into a whole new life. We're excited to welcome Richie to the Escape family of fantastic presenters.'
Richie's no stranger to a challenge, having also shown off his skills in the Celebrity MasterChef kitchen.
He cooked up a storm with his upbeat personality and creative dishes, impressing judges with his flair and flavour — even if a few attempts left the pros raising their eyebrows.
While he didn't make it to the final, Richie proved he's got just as much heart in the kitchen as he does on the dancefloor and behind the mic.
Escape to the Country will return with its 26th series to BBC One and iPlayer later this month.
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Richie won over viewers during his time on Strictly Come Dancing
Credit: PA
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