Random stars selected for US dancing show

Reuters

DANCING QUEEN: Denise Richards will compete on the next series of Dancing with the Stars in the US.

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The contestants for the American version of this year's Dancing with the Stars television show have been announced, and they're a random bunch. 

In a new twist, the names of the celebrities were unveiled during commercial breaks in-between ABC's TV shows.

Contestants include Lil' Kim, Denise Richards and Jackass star Steve-O.

For the first time ever a husband and wife - rodeo star Ty Murray and singer Jewel - will battle it out on the dancefloor.

Senior Talent Producer Deena Katz said: "It's the most diverse cast we've had. The women are phenomenal and the men are such great characters."

In another first for the show, professional dancer Julianne Hough will compete with her boyfriend, country singer Chuck Wicks.

Deena said: "Julianne is the cutest thing you'll ever meet and she's one of the toughest teachers. I keep warning Chuck, 'You see this loving side, but she is tough.'"

The line-up is completed by singer Belinda Carlisle, TV presenter Nancy O'Dell, American football star Lawrence Taylor, gymnast Shawn Johnson, actor Gilles Marini, computer whizz Steve Wozniak and actor-and-comedian David Alan Grier.

The first episode of series eight will be aired on March 9 on ABC.