Doctor Who favourite Alex Kingston and Johannes Radebe spill on Strictly journey and finale return

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Though 62-year-old actress Alex Kingston is just three years older than her Strictly Come Dancing partner Johannes Radebe’s mother, it was she who found herself taking lessons from the 38-year-old professional dancer during their time on the show.

Alex, what was it like learning from someone younger?

I can’t picture dancing with anyone else – Johannes was such an amazing partner! Now that we’re off Strictly, I’m worried I’ll never find someone I click with on the dance floor like I did with him.

Johannes exclaimed they really needed to sign up for lessons. He’s always believed partnerships are unique because they evolve, and he often explains it like a marriage – despite never having been married himself.

ALEX: And I’ve been married three times!

Did you have a mentor or someone you looked up to earlier in your careers?

Growing up in South Africa, I was inspired by an Australian dancer named Jason Gilkison. I admired him from afar and built my own dance career hoping to achieve what he did. Now, it’s incredible to be working alongside him – he’s the creative director of Strictly Come Dancing! I also love going back to South Africa to teach dance workshops to kids; it’s my way of helping the next generation.

My English teacher, Margaret Kirk, recognized I wasn’t strong in science, but she encouraged my passion for acting. She even created plays specifically for me to star in. Sadly, she’s passed away, but I’ll always be grateful for her support.

Are you looking forward to the final, where every Strictly couple returns for a reunion?

Absolutely! When you watch the opening credits of Strictly and see all the original contestants, it really hits you how few are still competing. It feels like ages ago when the show first started, and it’ll be great to see everyone’s happy faces again.

And finally, what are your post-Strictly Christmas plans?

We actually celebrate Christmas twice – once on the 24th with German traditions, and again on the 25th with English ones. I also get involved in the annual pantomime at our local pub. This year it’s Snow White, and they’ve asked me to play the magic mirror! It’s perfect because I can just record my lines as a voiceover if I’m still busy with Strictly.

After missing Christmas at home for two years, I’m finally flying back! It’s summertime there, and we usually have a huge barbecue with the whole family – lots of music, dancing, and just a great time. It sounds perfect.

Strictly Come Dancing continues on BBC One and iPlayer.

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2025-12-09 20:35