Dancing with the Stars will return to Irish television this New Year, promising another season of glitter, glamour and live performances. And in a historic first for the Irish version of Dancing With The Stars, the 2026 season will feature its first-ever female same-sex pairing. Podcaster Amber Wilson has partnered with professional dancer Alex Vladimirov, who returns for her second season.

Born in Ukraine and raised in Germany, Alex specialises in Ballroom and Latin dance and previously reached the final with Taekwondo athlete Jack Woolley. Amber, who is best known for co-hosting the Spencer and Vogue podcast (now renamed Vogue & Amber) alongside her younger sister Vogue Williams, said she is “deeply proud” to be part of such a significant moment for the show. She stepped into the podcasting role earlier this year after Vogue’s husband, Spencer Matthews, announced he was taking a step back to focus on other projects and world record attempts.

Speaking ahead of her Dancing with the Stars debut, Amber described the experience as both daunting and exhilarating. “It’s a huge challenge and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” she said. “I’m nervous about dancing in front of a live audience, but pushing myself outside my comfort zone is what life is all about.”

Amber also highlighted the importance of representation on screen, adding that she hopes the pairing will resonate with viewers. “Being part of the first female partnership on Dancing with the Stars in Ireland is something I’m incredibly proud of, and I feel privileged to represent my community on that stage.”

Dancing with the Stars will return to Irish television this New Year, with RTÉ revealing the celebrity and professional dancer pairings for the 2026 series. The much-loved show is back on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player from Sunday,  January 4 at 6.30pm.

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