Jody Cundy CBE has been officially announced as the latest addition to the lineup of celebrities set to grace the upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing, the beloved entertainment show produced by BBC Studios. The show is poised to make a return to both BBC One and BBC iPlayer later this year, promising its characteristic mix of glitz, glamour, and captivating dance performances that have been captivating audiences across the nation.
Renowned as a distinguished athlete, Jody Cundy CBE holds an impressive record as a World and Paralympic Champion. His remarkable achievements span across seven Summer Paralympics, where he proudly represented Great Britain. Over the course of his illustrious career, Jody has clinched an impressive collection of medals, comprising eight Gold, one Silver, and three Bronze, which he earned through his participation in a variety of swimming and cycling events. Jody’s prowess extends to the global stage as well, having claimed an astounding 23 world titles in various World Championships. Most recently, he secured another victory at the World Cycling Championships held in Glasgow just this week.
In the aftermath of his engagements at the Tokyo 2021 Paralympics, Jody attained a historic milestone by becoming the first male athlete in the history of Paralympics GB to amass medals in seven consecutive games. This exceptional accomplishment did not go unnoticed, as evidenced by the recognition he garnered from esteemed institutions. In 2012, Anglia Ruskin University bestowed upon him an Honorary Doctorate in Health Sciences, a testament to his outstanding contributions. Notably, the University of Hertfordshire followed suit a month later, conferring upon him an Honorary Master of Science degree.
Jody’s dedication to disability sports and his remarkable achievements have been acknowledged through a series of prestigious awards. In 2009, he was honoured with an MBE in recognition of his significant contributions. Subsequently, his impactful contributions to the realms of Swimming and Cycling led to an elevation of his distinction in 2017, when his MBE was upgraded to an OBE. The year 2022 brought further acclaim, with Jody being granted a CBE for his exceptional services to the field of cycling.
Among his numerous accomplishments, Jody Cundy CBE holds the esteemed world records for the Flying 200m and the 1km Time Trial. His dominance is further demonstrated by his astonishing feat of clinching 14 consecutive world titles in the MC4 Kilo Time Trial event.
Jody Cundy CBE says: “Excited to be welcomed into the Strictly family and throw myself headfirst into the world of ballroom dancing. So far away from what I’m used to, but I’m looking forward to the challenge and pushing myself way out of my comfort zone, especially as I’m always last on the dance floor. Can’t wait to get stuck in, bring on the glitter and sequins!”
The news was revealed on Wednesday 9 August on BBC Radio 5 Live Breakfast.
