The ballroom is about to get a whole lot more interesting! George Clarke, the comedic powerhouse from YouTube and TikTok, has officially been announced as a contestant on the upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing 2025. This marks a significant departure for the social media star, swapping his familiar backdrop of video sets for the glitz and glamour of the Strictly stage.

Clarke's inclusion represents the sixth celebrity reveal for the season, fueling the anticipation and excitement surrounding the show's return. He's set to face some formidable competition, including other well-known personalities, adding another layer of intrigue to the contest.

The young star first ventured into the world of online content creation as a teenager in 2019. His relatable personality and talent for crafting hilarious comedy videos quickly resonated with audiences. This initial spark of creativity ignited a dedicated following, propelling him into the spotlight as one of the internet's most engaging personalities.

Reflecting on his upcoming appearance on Strictly Come Dancing, Clarke humorously admitted, "Never thought I’d say this but I’m doing Strictly! Honestly, I’ve got no idea what I’m doing but I’m excited to get stuck in and potentially fall over a fair bit." This down-to-earth approach instantly endears him to viewers, suggesting he's in it for the fun and experience, regardless of the outcome.

The competition is already heating up with the announcement of other participants. Dani Dyer, known for her appearance on Love Island, will also be gracing the dance floor. Dyer might have previous dance experiences, potentially providing her with an edge early in the competition.

Breaking ground and making history, another contestant is the first drag star to join the main series of Strictly Come Dancing. This exciting addition promises to bring a unique flair, energy, and perspective to the competition, challenging norms and celebrating inclusivity.

Adding a sporty element to the mix is Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, the former Chelsea football player. He's trading in his football boots for dancing shoes, which demonstrates an interesting transition from the pitch to the ballroom, showcasing a willingness to embrace new challenges.

Also confirmed for the season is Thomas Skinner, another personality bringing his own distinctive style to the competition. With such a diverse cast of characters, the upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing promises to be a captivating spectacle.

Clarke's presence on social media is undeniably strong. He boasts a massive following of 2.3 million on TikTok, demonstrating his popularity among younger audiences. Additionally, he has over 697,000 followers on other social media platforms, expanding his reach and influence across different demographics.

He has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the YouTube community, regularly creating content with fellow creators. These collaborations have not only expanded his reach but also solidified his position as a prominent figure in the digital landscape.

Beyond his individual content, Clarke showcased his athletic abilities by playing for Sidemen FC in their highly anticipated charity match against the YouTube Allstars. This event provided a platform for entertainment and also raised money for a worthy cause.

In an unforgettable moment, he scored a last-minute equalizer in front of a roaring crowd of 90,000 people, sending the game into penalties. This dramatic display of skill and composure further cemented his status as a crowd-pleaser and adds an unexpected twist to his Strictly Come Dancing narrative.

Clarke is also known for his popular podcast, "The Useless Hotline," which he co-hosts with fellow TikTok star Max Balegde. The podcast has garnered a loyal following, featuring a blend of humor, advice, and relatable anecdotes.

Balegde, Clarke's co-host, is known for appearing on "I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here," adding another layer of connection to the world of reality television. Their on-screen chemistry translates into a successful podcasting venture.

"The Useless Hotline" has achieved a remarkable 4.9/5 star rating, demonstrating its widespread appeal and quality content. With over 140 episodes released, the duo has cultivated a strong connection with their listeners.

The podcast's success extends beyond the digital realm, as Clarke and Balegde have taken their show on the road, performing a series of live shows across the UK. This demonstrates their ability to engage with their audience in both virtual and physical spaces.

Adding an interesting family connection to the mix, Clarke's father is Sean Clarke, the managing director of Aardman Animations, the studio behind iconic creations like Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, and Flushed Away. This connection to the world of animation provides a unique perspective to Clarke's background.

Sean Clarke oversees the entire operation at Aardman Animations, including the executive board. He has also served as a co-producer on some of the studio's biggest releases, showcasing his significant contributions to the world of animation.

As a nod to his father's career, George has a pet mouse named Gromit, demonstrating his appreciation for the iconic animated characters. He regularly pays tribute to the movies on his social media channels, blending his online persona with his family's legacy.

While many online know him as George Clarkey, the social media star's real name is George Clarke. He uses the moniker "George Clarkey" across his TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube channels, creating a consistent brand identity for his online presence.

Despite his frequent appearances in their videos, George Clarke is not an official member of the Sidemen. This misconception often arises due to his participation in the Sidemen FC charity match and his appearances in various TikTok videos alongside the group.

Clarke was a cast member on Season Two of "Sidemen: Inside," a show that aired in March. He finished in fifth place, with the prize money being divided among Cinna Brit, Mya Mills, and PK Humble. His participation in the show further solidified his connection to the Sidemen community.