Former Emmerdale star joins Strictly Come Dancing 2025 after contestant forced to withdraw

Actor Lewis Cope from Emmerdale has been confirmed as a participant in Strictly Come Dancing 2025, replacing Kristian Nairn who had to withdraw from the show.

On Thursday, the 21st of August, Nairn revealed that an unforeseen health issue compelled him to step out of the series.

Later today, Cope shared that he was appearing on BBC One’s The One Show, and mentioned that they reached out to him on Monday, inviting him to participate in this year’s edition of the show.

While making his way to meet a friend on Oxford Street, the actor unexpectedly received a call.

Speaking on his experience of joining the series late, he remarked, “I guess, in a way, it’s worked to my advantage as I didn’t have much time to ponder or worry, and now, the thrill of being part of it has simply overwhelmed me.

Scroll on to learn more about the actor.

Who is Lewis Cope?

Age: 30

Job: Actor

Instagram: @lewiscope

11-year-old actor, named Cope, first appeared on stage, portraying the character Michael, in the successful Broadway production Billy Elliot: The Musical on the West End.

Yet, it’s worth noting that he gained significant recognition for his character as Nicky Milligan in the TV series Emmerdale on ITV.

He was nominated for the Rising Star Award at the 2023 National Television Awards for the role.

Away from the Dales, Cope has also starred in Vera, Mrs Sidhu Investigates and Hetty Feather.

What has Lewis Cope said about joining Strictly Come Dancing?

Upon signing up for Strictly Come Dancing, Cope expressed his enthusiasm by stating: “I can hardly contain my excitement as I trade the Dales for the dance floor, and join this season’s Strictly Come Dancing lineup!

He continued: “I’ve always been a fan of the show and cannot wait to get started!”

Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and iPlayer later this year.

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2025-08-22 15:29