Former Ireland rugby player Shane Byrne joins Dancing with the Stars

The former Irish international has made over 100 appearances on the pitch for Leinster and over 40 for Ireland, including the winning Triple Crown squad in 2004.

"I’m really looking forward to hitting the dance floor on Dancing with the Stars in January!” the Wicklow native told Jennifer Zamparelli on RTÉ 2FM this morning.

"It’s not like anything I’ve ever done before - it's a long way from the rugby pitch – but I’ll give it my all and I know I’ll have a lot of fun along the way.”

Byrne hung up his boots in 2009 following selections for the British and Irish Lions and Saracens throughout his career.

Dubbed ‘the Mullet’ or ‘Munch’ for his famous haircut, Byrne is bringing his unique style to the dance floor as Dancing with the Stars returns in January.

Five other celebrities have been confirmed as contestants so far including Panti Bliss, Suzanne Jackson, Brooke Scullion, Paul Brogan and most recently, Dr Marie Cassidy.

The former State pathologist yesterday joined the cast of celebrities already named to take on the glitz and glam of the series.

Glasgow-born Marie said: “I haven’t stopped smiling since I was asked to be part of Dancing with the Stars.

“It’s going to be a challenge as I’m not used to just having fun. But bring it on, the more sequins the better. Just got to learn to dance. Over to you, partner.”

Dr Marie Cassidy was the first woman to be State Pathologist and held the role for 14 years until 2018.

During that time, she worked on some of the most high-profile cases in Ireland. She is also Professor of Forensic Medicine at the Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland and Trinity College.

By next Sunday, fans will know the full line-up of celebrities preparing to battle it out for the glitter ball trophy.