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Back in the Eighties, Russell was the TV astrologer of choice, appearing on an array of Breakfast programmes, and he even did an astrological reading for the Queen Mother, leading to him being dubbed the Astrologer Royal. Russell has also presented his own TV shows, including Russell Grant's All Star Show and appeared on stage, more recently in A Midsummer Night's Dream. Let's hope the galaxy is on side when he takes his first steps on the show!

What made you decide to take part in Strictly?

For me, Strictly Come Dancing is the most theatrical of TV shows – it IS glamorous, glitzy, and glorious. It is encapsulates everything I live for and adore. I have never learned to dance properly and the prospect of learning how to dance excites and thrills, especially ANYTHING Latin but I'm worried about the waltzes!

What are you looking for from your professional partner?

Patience, sunny persona and a spirit of fun! A wicked sense of humour is also a must! I love to laugh and I really want to live a little longer than I would have done a few years back. I am at that time of my life when I do things that I want to do, not what everyone else tells me I must.

Did the stars influence your decision to take part in Strictly?

No! But my weight did – having lost nearly 10 stones, I'd like to take a couple more off. So my health definitely influenced my decision.

Has your profession helped with you decisions and can you see what the future holds for you in the show?

No! I don't look into the future and never have done, it's not an astrological thing! Astrology is about compatibility so there are certain signs that will be good for me. I'm really excited to find out who I am paired with, as a compatibility chart WILL have to be done. The best signs for me, strictly sun signs you understand, are Pisces and Libra - so any of the girls who are these signs can potentially bring out the best in me.