Jennifer Metcalfe is reportedly being lined up to star on 'Strictly Come Dancing'.

Jennifer Metcalfe

Jennifer Metcalfe

The 36-year-old actress - who is best known for playing Mercedes McQueen in 'Hollyoaks' - is wanted by BBC bosses to star in the upcoming series, having previously appeared on 'Dancing on Ice' in 2011.

A source told the Sunday Mirror newspaper: "Soap stars always do well on 'Strictly' and Jen is one of the most loved and sexiest out there right now.

"Everyone working on the show is very excited at the ­prospect of her signing.

"She's been at the centre of some of 'Hollyoaks' biggest ever storylines over the years.

"Only last year, her character was shot as she spun around a dance floor. People are joking that it was like her 'Strictly' audition when she filmed those scenes."

Meanwhile, Craig Revel Horwood recently revealed he remains confident the upcoming series will go ahead as planned.

The 55-year-old TV star believes BBC bosses will ultimately find a way to stage the series, despite the challenge posed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Craig - who has been a member of the 'Strictly' judging panel since the show's inception in 2004 - explained: "I've spoken to the producers and they're working through absolutely everything to make it happen. I know, fingers crossed, it will.

"There is some way around it, there has to be. People love the show, it's great entertainment ... We really want it back and I know BBC One are working extremely hard to make that happen for the audience."