Melanie Walters is a Welsh actress best known for playing Gwen West in the beloved sitcom Gavin & Stacey, and her Strictly Come Dancing series 24 casting brought that warmth to the ballroom. Partnered with Aljaž Škorjanec, she was eliminated second, on October 11, 2026. Her run was short, but it delighted Gavin & Stacey fans who had watched her for years as the show’s warm-hearted mother figure.
| Full Name | Melanie Walters |
| Known For | Gavin & Stacey; Strictly Come Dancing series 24 |
| Occupation | Actress |
| Strictly Come Dancing partner | Aljaž Škorjanec |
Who Is Melanie Walters?
Melanie Walters is a Welsh actress whose best-known role is Gwen West, the mother of Gavin Shipman, in Gavin & Stacey, the BBC sitcom that became one of Britain’s most loved comedies. She played Gwen across the show’s run, including its later specials, and her performance made the character a fan favorite. Beyond Gavin & Stacey she has worked in television, theatre and film, building a long career as a character actress. Her Strictly casting in 2026 was a new challenge late in a well-established career.
Early Life & Background
Walters is from Wales and trained as an actress, working in theatre and television before her breakthrough in Gavin & Stacey. The sitcom, created by James Corden and Ruth Jones, premiered in 2007 and became a cultural phenomenon, and Walters’ role as Gwen placed her at the heart of its Welsh family story. Her background in stage and screen acting gave her performance experience, though ballroom dancing was a new discipline for her.
Strictly Come Dancing Series 24 Journey
Walters joined Strictly Come Dancing series 24, which launched on BBC One on September 19, 2026, partnered with Aljaž Škorjanec. She was eliminated second, on October 11, 2026, after the early live shows. Her exit was met with affection from viewers, many of whom had followed her since Gavin & Stacey, and she spoke warmly about her time on the show and her partnership with Škorjanec.
Career
Walters’ career is defined by Gavin & Stacey, where she played Gwen West, but it also includes stage work and other television roles. Her portrayal of Gwen, a warm and sometimes chaotic mother, became one of the show’s most quoted characters. She returned for the show’s later specials, which drew huge audiences, and she has continued to work in theatre and television. Strictly Come Dancing gave her a chance to perform live in a completely different format.
Facts About Melanie Walters
- Melanie Walters is a Welsh actress.
- She is best known as Gwen West in Gavin & Stacey.
- She played Gwen across the sitcom’s run and specials.
- She has worked in theatre and television.
- On Strictly Come Dancing series 24 she was partnered with Aljaž Škorjanec.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Melanie Walters known for?
Melanie Walters is known for playing Gwen West in Gavin & Stacey.
Who was Melanie Walters partnered with on Strictly Come Dancing?
Melanie Walters was partnered with Aljaž Škorjanec on Strictly Come Dancing series 24.
When was Melanie Walters eliminated from Strictly Come Dancing?
Melanie Walters was eliminated second from Strictly Come Dancing series 24, on October 11, 2026.
Is Melanie Walters Welsh?
Yes. Melanie Walters is a Welsh actress.
What character does Melanie Walters play in Gavin & Stacey?
Melanie Walters plays Gwen West, Gavin’s mother, in Gavin & Stacey.
See the full Strictly Come Dancing 2026 Cast hub.