Louis Smith is the latest Olympian being linked to the new series of Strictly Come Dancing, which is due to launch next weekend.

The 23 year old sportsman is a British artistic gymnast who specializes in the pommel horse. He received a bronze medal and a silver medal on the pommel horse at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2012 London Olympics respectively, with the former marking the first time a Briton gymnast had placed in an Olympic event since 1928.

Not bad eh?

A few years back Louis auditioned for the X Factor, losing out on the chance to go to bootcamp because, well, he couldn’t really sing but this year he could be set to give reality TV another try as insiders claim BBC bosses are hoping to capitalise on the Olympic 2012 spirit and book as many champions of the games as possible for their new series.

A source told The Sun that producers had been impressed by Louis’ recent achievements and explained:

‘Louis captured the hearts of viewers during the Olympics when he burst into tears after his pommel horse performance. Now we want him to win over viewers.

‘As an athlete, he is fit and dedicated and would be capable of some amazing dance moves.’

His chiseled good looks are a big plus point for Louis too and the source added that bosses are hoping Louis will be a big hit with the ladies.

They added:

‘He will definitely be one of the show’s heart-throbs.

‘He has yet to sign on the dotted line but it’s likely when the line-up is announced next week he will be on the list of contestants.’

Other Olympians linked to Strictly’s 2012 series include rower Mark Hunter, gymnast Beth Tweddle and retired English track cyclist Victoria Pendleton. You can check out the full rumoured lineup here.

It seems that the series will have it’s fair share of TV presenters too with Chris Evans, Sian Williams and Johnny Ball all believed to have signed on the dotted line and the obligatory American star, actress and model Jerry Hall.

What do you think of the lineup? Are you looking forward to Strictly’s return? Leave your comments below….