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Fury Hits the Ballroom: Rugby Star Joins Strictly!
24 Nov
Summary
- Jodie Ounsley, known as Fury, joins Strictly Christmas Special.
- She is the first female rugby player to compete on the show.
- Ounsley is also a deaf advocate and a former professional rugby player.

Jodie Ounsley, a notable figure in rugby and advocate for the deaf community, has been announced as a contestant for the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special. Ounsley, who previously played professionally for teams like Loughborough Lightning and Sale Sharks Women, brings a unique background to the ballroom. She also holds the distinction of being the first deaf female to play for a senior England rugby side.
Beyond her rugby career, Ounsley has achieved success as a British Brazilian jiu-jitsu champion and holds a Guinness World Record for the fastest coal carrying sprint. Her broadcasting experience includes work for the BBC and Channel 4, and she recently gained popularity as 'Fury' on the rebooted Gladiators series. Ounsley anticipates the dance competition will be a significant challenge.
Ounsley joins a festive line-up for the Christmas special, which will feature six couples competing for the title. Hosted by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, the show will include judging from Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke. The public vote will determine the winner of this festive edition.




