Singer-songwriter Brian Kennedy has been announced as the final celebrity dancer to be joining the ninth series of Dancing with the Stars when it returns on 4 January to RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.
Kennedy was discovered by Simon Fuller and his early career took off when he became a featured vocalist with Van Morrison, sharing global stages with legends like Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell.
As a solo artist, Brian’s 1996 album A Better Man went quadruple platinum, with chart hits in both Ireland and the UK. His 1999 duet with Ronan Keating, These Days, charted at number 4 on the Irish Singles Chart, adding another pop gem to his repertoire.
In 2006, he represented Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest with Every Song is a Cry for Love, finishing in the top ten. He is preparing to release his nineteenth album next year.
"I'm so excited to join the cast of Dancing with the Stars," Kennedy said. "I'm really looking forward to getting fit and to learn how to dance properly and the challenge of that.
"What a way to start what will be my 60th year on the planet!"
The new series of Dancing with the Stars will be hosted by Jennifer Zamparelli and Laura Fox, with Oti Mabuse, Brian Redmond, Arthur Gourounlian and Karen Byrne judging the competition.
Eurovision winner and singer Niamh Kavanagh, Paudie Moloney from The Traitors Ireland, reigning Rose of Tralee Katelyn Cummins, comedian and actor Michael Fry, Fair City actress Stephanie Kelly, television presenter Eric Roberts, olympic medal winning rower and doctor Philip Doyle, musician Tolü Makay, podcaster Amber Wilson, Nationwide presenter Anne Cassin and Apprentice UK finalist Jordan Dargan will also be taking part in the popular show.
Dancing with the Stars returns to RTÉ One and RTÉ Player on 4 January 2026, airing on Sunday nights.
