(Image: BBC/Ray Burmiston/BBC Creative)
Strictly Come Dancing viewers were shocked to learn that Shaun Wright-Phillips is the son of a legendary footballer.
The 2026 series began with its first live show, featuring 15 new celebrities.
The show started with a performance by the Strictly professionals and judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Shirley Ballas.
Some viewers were left distracted after discovering that the football star has a very famous father.
Who is Shaun Wright-Phillips' father?
Former Manchester City and Chelsea star Shaun was adopted by Ian Wright when he was three, after Ian began a relationship with Shaun's mother, Sharon Phillips.
Ian recently revealed that he is too nervous to watch his son on Strictly Come Dancing.
For all things Strictly, read our article here - Latest Strictly Come Dancing updates including start date, new hosts, lineup and more
Shaun has also said that Ian has always struggled to watch him play football live, and he believes the same will apply now he has swapped his boots for dancing shoes.
What has Shaun Wright-Phillips said about being on Strictly?
Wright-Phillips has described the programme as a challenge outside his usual experience, after being announced as a contestant in July.
He said: “Dancing is in my blood—but mainly at family events!”
“Strictly is definitely outside my comfort zone, but I’m super excited to get started and really looking forward to the challenge!”
He joins footballers including Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Tony Adams and Paul Merson on the programme.
Last year’s winner, Karen Carney, also came from football.
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"I just know him — he might come to a show, but if anything, he will watch it the next morning because he gets too nervous," Shaun said.
"So, I'll try and get him to a show at some point," he added.
Have you been watching Strictly? Let us know in the comments.