Kara Tointon's 'Strictly' Return?

Tuesday 31st March 2009 - 13:00:33

Kara Tointon is to make a second appearance on 'Strictly Come Dancing'.

The 25-year-old beauty won a charity version of the hit BBC dancing show last year, but had previously been banned from taking part in the proper programme by 'EastEnders' bosses.

However, Kara has confirmed she is now leaving the soap and has immediately commenced talks with 'Strictly Come Dancing' bosses.

Kara has made it no secret that she has wanted to do 'Strictly Come Dancing' for years. Hopefully we can make it happen.She's exactly the kind of contestant that we want on the show.

A show source said: "Kara has made it no secret that she has wanted to do 'Strictly Come Dancing' for years. Hopefully we can make it happen.

"She's exactly the kind of contestant that we want on the show."

'EastEnders' bosses do not allow the soap's stars to appear on 'Strictly Come Dancing' because it interferes with their filming schedule.

However, Kara - who plays Dawn Swann in 'EastEnders' - and her on-screen boyfriend Gary Hobbs (Ricky Groves) have had their contracts terminated from August, meaning Kara will be free to compete when the new series starts in September.

The BBC is said to be keen to "sex up" 'Strictly Come Dancing' by giving it a more glamorous image and recruiting younger celebrity contestants in a bid to attract more viewers.