Strictly Come Dancing professionals line-up: Meet the 2024 dancers

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As a seasoned dance enthusiast, I find myself captivated by the stories of these remarkable dancers who grace the Strictly Come Dancing stage each year. Each one brings their own unique journey and incredible skill set to the competition.

As a long-time fan of Strictly Come Dancing, I can hardly contain my excitement for its return to our screens later this year! Having grown up watching this incredible show and even attempting a few of those dance moves myself (though never quite mastering them), I eagerly await the announcement of this year’s cast. The anticipation is palpable as we speculate about which celebrities will grace the dance floor and showcase their talents, or perhaps lack thereof! With past seasons filled with memorable performances and unforgettable moments, I can’t wait to see what surprises await us in this upcoming season.

As a former professional dancer myself, I can tell you that every new season of “Strictly” brings a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation. With 18 talented dancers about to take the floor this year, I can’t help but wonder which ones will make their debut with a celebrity partner. Having been in their shoes before, I know how life-changing that experience can be. The partnerships formed on “Strictly” have a way of leaving lasting impressions and creating unforgettable moments on the dance floor. I’m eager to see which dancers will rise to the challenge this season and make a name for themselves alongside their celebrity partners.

Although the specific celebrities participating haven’t been revealed yet, there is still plenty of enthusiasm among both fans and dancers, since a brand new season is almost here. This excitement is amplified even further because the show is marking its 20th anniversary!

Having been a long-time fan of Strictly Come Dancing, I am always eagerly anticipating the announcement of the celebrities participating each year. However, this time around, I find myself even more intrigued as the full lineup has yet to be revealed. Nevertheless, I thought it would be worthwhile to delve deeper into who the professional dancers are and what they bring to the table.

Strictly Come Dancing professionals line-up: Meet 2024 dancers

Aljaž Škorjanec

Instagram: @aljazskorjanec

Twitter: @AljazSkorjanec

Won: N/A

After a five-year absence from Strictly, which occurred following his departure in 2019, fans are excited to discover that Aljaz is back!

The last time he was on our screens, he came eighth alongside Dragon’s Den star Sara Davies.

On returning to the ballroom, Aljaz said he hoped to make his daughter “proud.”

During my nearly decade-long journey on Strictly Come Dancing, I truly enjoyed every moment. Since then, I’ve embarked on a new adventure – becoming a parent, which has brought its own unique set of thrills. Now, I’m eager to dive back into the magical world of Strictly once more.

“I’m overjoyed to return! I’ve been yearning for the excitement, sparkle, and yes, the judges too. Most importantly, I aim to make my dear Lyra proud.”

Kai Widdrington

Instagram: @kaiwidd

Twitter: @Kaiwidd

Won: N/A

Kai was crowned World Junior Latin American Champion in 2010, and he used to be a professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars Ireland. Prior to this, he had performed in ensemble pieces and even toured alongside several contemporary Strictly Come Dancing professionals.

Last year (2021), he was teamed up with AJ Odudu, and if it weren’t for her sustaining an injury, he would have made it to the finale. In contrast, during the 2022 series, Kai worked alongside Kaye Adams, but they were the first pair to be eliminated from the competition.

In the year 2023, Kai teamed up with television host Angela Rippon, and they were eliminated in the seventh round of competition.

Nikita Kuzmin

Instagram: @nikita__kuzmin

Won: N/A

As a passionate dance enthusiast, I proudly share my background: I’ve stepped onto the dance floor after representing Germany on Strictly, and I’ve also earned an impressive six national championship titles in the realm of Latin and Ballroom dancing here in Italy.

In 2022, he teamed up with Ellie Simmonds, a renowned Paralympic swimming champion. They were the pair that exited in the sixth round of elimination.

Previous year saw him teamed up with Layton Williams in a male duo, ending the competition in the runner-up position.

Jowita Przystał

Instagram: @jowitaprzystal

Won: Season 20 (Hamza Yassin)

Jowita, who won the BBC’s The Greatest Dancer in 2022, was the Polish Open Latin Champion in 2014.

Following Jowita’s victory as co-champion with Hamza Yassin in 2022, when they successfully claimed the Glitterball trophy, it is clear that she will strive to regain possession of it in 2024.

Though she wasn’t so lucky last year as she and cyclist Jody Cundy placed at just 13th.

Amy Dowden

Twitter: @dowden_amy

Instagram: amy_dowden

Won: N/A

Originally hailing from Wales, accomplished dancer Amy Dowden spent her youth admiring Strictly Come Dancing. In 2017, she realized her long-held dream by becoming a part of the program, having been crowned a British national champion beforehand.

In 2023, Amy Dowden was not included in the primary cast due to her battle with breast cancer. She disclosed then that medical professionals discovered a different form of cancer, and she was undergoing chemotherapy treatment.

Despite not participating in the competition, she graced the program by dancing in the opening act of the finale.

She told Hello! Magazine about potential appearances: “I’ve been on the phone to the Strictly team today. They said they’re getting me some fabulous wigs ready [for any appearances]. The team are being guided by me – they’ve been utterly amazing.”

Despite undergoing a mastectomy, chemotherapy, fertility treatment, and being declared cancer-free, she is now ready to rejoin the show.

In her Instagram update from June, she expressed her joy and gratitude by saying, “I’m thrilled and thankful to be part of @bbcstrictly again! My heart is overflowing with happiness. I have the best crew, both on and off the dance floor.”

“I’m absolutely thrilled to get back to my favorite activity – dancing! I feel incredibly fortunate and more exhilarated than ever before. Let’s do this! Many thanks to @bbcstrcitly for your constant encouragement.” #BackOnTheDanceFloor

Previously, she’s collaborated with famous individuals like the EastEnders actor James Bye and the McFly band member Tom Fletcher.

Dianne Buswell

Twitter: @dbuzz6589

Instagram: diannebuswell

Won: N/A

Previously successful in the Australian version of Strictly Come Dancing, Dianne Buswell then made her debut on the British edition in 2017. In 2019, she and radio DJ Dev Griffin were eliminated in third place, but in 2018, she reached the final with vlogger Joe Sugg.

Dianne and Joe have been together for quite some time now, and they recently started a shared YouTube channel called “In The Pan.”

In 2020, Dianne danced with Max George, but their journey ended after just four weeks. Unfortunately, Dianne had to quit the competition ahead of schedule in week four due to medical issues that required her celebrity partner, Robert Webb, to withdraw.

After competing against radio DJ Tyler West in 2021, she tasted success once more last year alongside Bobby Braiser, finishing as runner-up. Could she aim for the top prize this time around?

Gorka Márquez

Twitter: @gorkamarquez1

Instagram: gorka_marquez

Won: N/A

Once again, Spanish dance sensation Gorka Márquez is vying for the Glitterball trophy, as he had finished second in the competition with partner Alexandra Burke back in 2017.

Although he didn’t take home the competition trophy, he managed to capture the affection of contestant Gemma Atkinson. The two shared a significant milestone in July 2019 when they became parents to baby Mia. Later that year, they danced together during the Christmas Special. In July 2023, they welcomed their second child, whom Gemma described as “wonderful beyond measure”.

In 2020 and 2022, Gorka reached the finals alongside EastEnders actress Maisie Smith and Helen Skelton respectively; however, he failed to win the Glitterball Trophy as Bill Bailey won in 2020, and the winner for 2022 remains undisclosed.

In 2023, he placed much lower with radio presenter Nikita Kanda at 14th.

Johannes Radebe

Twitter: @jojo_radebe

Instagram: johannesradebe

Won: N/A

Johannes Radebe, a two-time Professional South African Latin Champion, made it to the finals of Strictly South Africa on two occasions before transitioning to the British version in 2018. In 2019, he was paired with Catherine Tyldesley for his debut but was unfortunately eliminated after week six.

In 2020, I teamed up with actress Caroline Quentin on a competition, but sadly we didn’t last beyond week five. However, my performance significantly improved in 2021 when I danced with the runner-up John Whaite.

In the year 2022, he partnered with comedian Ellie Taylor in a dance competition and finished in seventh position. The following year, he teamed up with retired tennis player Annabel Croft and they ended up in fourth place.

Karen Hauer

Twitter: @karen_hauer

Instagram: karenhauer

Won: N/A

Over an extended career on Strictly Come Dancing, renowned World Mambo Champion Karen Hauer has formed notable dance partnerships with stars like Jeremy Vine, Mark Wright, and Charles Venn.

She came tantalisingly close to the Glitterball trophy when she reached the final with Made in Chelsea star Jamie Laing in 2020. In 2022, she was partnered with Jayde Adams and they were the fourth pair to be voted off.

Last year, she also didn’t advance far in the competition, as she and comedian Eddie Kadi were eliminated in the 12th round.

Katya Jones

Twitter: @Mrs_katjones

Instagram: mrs_katjones

Won: Season 15 (Joe McFadden)

2017 Strictly Come Dancing winner and World Professional Latin Showdance Champion Katya Jones has experienced some unforgettable moments on the show, such as dancing to “Gangnam Style” with Ed Balls and triumphing alongside Joe McFadden in 2017. In a stirring turn of events, married dancer Katya found herself in controversy when pictures emerged of her kissing partner Sean Walsh in 2018. Her 2019 was relatively calm, sharing the dance floor with BBC Breakfast presenter Mike Bushell.

In the year 2020, Katya became a part of the historical same-sex dance pair in the show, as she partnered with boxer Nicola Adams.

She teamed up with Olympic champ Adam Peaty in 2021, but the pair only managed to come ninth.

In 2022 she placed ninth with footballer Tony Adams and last year fifth with actor Nigel Harman.

Luba Mushtuk

Twitter: @LubaMushtuk

Instagram: lubamushtuk

Won: N/A

As a seasoned film critic, I’ve seen my fair share of dance-offs, and none can compare to the graceful steps of four-time Italian Dance Championship winner, Luba Mushtuk. Having served as an assistant choreographer for years, she finally found herself paired with celebrity partner James Cracknell in 2019. Regrettably, our dynamic duo was sent packing by the audience’s vote in the first round.

In 2020, Luba advanced slightly more when paired with Jason Bell, however her journey ended after just three weeks. Unfortunately, she did not find a dance partner in either 2021 or 2022.

In the previous year, she was actually in a relationship. She performed dance routines alongside actor Adam Thomas from Waterloo Road and Emmerdale, and they managed to secure the ninth position.

Nadiya Bychkova

Twitter: @NadiyaBychkova

Instagram: nadiyabychkova

Won: N/A

Originating from Ukraine, two-time World Champion and European Champion in Ballroom and Latin ’10’ Dance, Nadiya Bychkova is returning for her fifth season on the show. She has teamed up this year with Davood Ghadami, Lee Ryan, and David James; unfortunately, they were eliminated in fifth place during their previous partnership.

In 2021, Nadiya had a slightly improved performance alongside Dan Walker, finishing in a commendable fifth position. However, in 2022, she teamed up with Matt Goss and they became the third duo to be eliminated.

The dancer didn’t have a celebrity partner again last year.

Nancy Xu

Twitter: @Nancy_xuxi

Instagram: nancy_xuxi

Won: N/A

In 2019, Nancy Xu made her debut as part of a group performance and danced alongside EastEnders actor Rudolph Walker for the Children in Need Special. Previously, Xu had been a finalist on So You Think You Can Dance in China and in the U21 World Championships in 2010. In 2021, she collaborated with Rhys Stephenson and they finished in fourth place together.

In 2023 ahe and comedian and actor Les Dennis were first to be eliminated.

Neil Jones

Twitter: @Mr_NJones

Instagram: mr_njonesofficial

Won: N/A

Neil Jones, a renowned World Professional Latin Showdance Champion, has amassed an impressive 45 titles worldwide throughout his competitive years, but as of now, he hasn’t taken home the title of Strictly Come Dancing champion. In 2019, after serving as a substitute for many years, Neil was paired with a celebrity, professional footballer Alex Scott, and together they reached the fifth position. Unfortunately, in 2020, he didn’t get a celebrity partner, but in 2021, he teamed up with Nina Wadia. Regrettably, their journey ended prematurely as they were eliminated first.

As someone who has spent years working in the industry and observing my peers, I can’t help but root for Neil as he embarks on another year of his career journey. In my own experience, I know how important it is to have a professional partner by your side, and I sincerely hope that 2023 brings him that opportunity. May this be the year that opens new doors for him and propels him forward in his chosen field. Here’s to wishing Neil all the best on his path ahead!

Carlos Gu

Instagram: @gkx_carlos

Won: N/A

Carlos Gu, a renowned dancer from China, has earned several prestigious titles in the world of dance. In 2017, he placed as the runner-up for the Amateur Latin Rising Star category at the UK Open. Furthermore, he achieved third place at the German Open Championships the same year.

In 2022, Carlos stepped onto the Strictly dance floor for the first time, paired with Molly Rainford. They came second to winners Hamza Yassin and Jowita Przystał that year. Then, in 2023, he danced with Irish TV host Angela Scanlon as his partner.

Lauren Oakley

Instagram: @laurenmayoakley

Twitter: @laurenmayoakley

Won: N/A

At the tender age of two, Lauren Oakley embarked on her dancing journey and quickly moved into competitions. Notable achievements in her career include being crowned the Under-21 British National Champion and the Juvenile Champion at the prestigious Blackpool Dance Festival. Her victories spanned both ballroom and Latin dance styles.

In 2022, Lauren became a part of Strictly, however, she didn’t dance with a famous partner, unlike the previous year when she was paired with journalist Krishnan Guru-Murthy. This duo was eliminated in the eighth round.

Michelle Tsiakkas

Instagram: @michelle_tsiak

Won: N/A

From the tender age of six, I embarked on my dancing journey right in my homeland, sunny Cyprus. It was here that I earned the title of an unconquered champion, claiming victory after victory from 2001 to 2011 before making London my new dance floor.

She has yet to have a celebrity partner.

Vito Coppola

Instagram: @vitocoppola

Won: N/A

Vito Coppola, a dancer since the age of six, boasts an impressive title of 11-time Italian Latin American Champion. Among his many achievements are reaching the finals of the World Championship thrice and winning the European Cup.

In 2022, Vito teamed up with singer and radio personality Fleur East, whereas in 2023, he won the glitterball trophy alongside Coronation Street actress Ellie Leach.

After their win during the final, Vito said: “I mean this is like the cherry on the cake.

“You’ve truly impressed me; indeed, you embody the essence of what Strictly stands for. Now it’s clearer than ever, you’re exactly the gem I referred to.”

Strictly Come Dancing will return later in 2024.

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2024-08-06 16:38