TV hunk and actor Ricky Whittle has set millions of teenage hearts racing with his role as Hollyoaks' good boy turned bad, Calvin.

Before he caught the acting bug, Ricky was on the path to football stardom. But, despite being scouted by both Arsenal and Celtic, an injury ended any hopes he had to pursue a professional career and so he began a four-year law degree. Whilst there he began modelling, securing some high-profile campaigns and, after a successful audition for a TV drama, he decided to forego his career in the courts for one on screen.

Hoping to look impressive on the Strictly dance floor, Ricky would love to receive a perfect 40 from the Strictly judges. Known for starring in many Hollyoaks' scenes in not much more than his underwear, Ricky isn't averse to using his best assets to get him through the competition.

He says: "I love all the sexy Latin stuff; the salsa, the rumba. I get flustered in suits, so if I'm in something else it would be better. To be honest if it gets me through to the final I'll dance in my thong!"