Great news, dance fans! Johannes Radebe, that charming star from *Strictly Come Dancing*, isn't going anywhere. In a chat with *The Big Issue*, Johannes put any rumors about leaving *Strictly* firmly in their place, much like he does with those steps on stage.
After wrapping up his most recent gig with actor Alex Kingston, whispers were circulating that Johannes might swap his *Strictly* shine and try his luck on London's West End. But Johannes was quick with a reality check, saying, "As long as my body will allow, I will do Strictly. That's my sparkly, magical universe." It's music (and dance) at our ears, especially if you've been following his vibrant performances since 2018, or caught him stealing scenes in *Kinky Boots*.
Let's take a closer look at Johannes' amazing story and see what makes him such an electric force, both on and off that dance floor.
From South Africa's zestful dance floors: Johannes Radebe's rise
Johannes Radebe hails from Zamdela in South Africa, a place buzzing with lively culture and rhythm. Before he graced *Strictly* in 2018, he was sharpening his moves teaching dance in Johannesburg and performing on cruise ships—a gig that saw him circling this big, blue globe. Not only that, but he also snagged wins at South Africa's Professional Latin championships. Twice. Now, that desk job back home? Left in a cloud of glitter.
Triumph over adversity: battling homophobia with pride
Johannes doesn't shy away from opening up about rough patches dealing with homophobic bullying back in his youth. Proudly defining himself as "camp as Christmas, a six-foot-plus gay boy with a flair for heels and feathers," Johannes shares how tough it was growing up gay in a more conservative spot. Despite some painful flashbacks, he finds healing and strength through his beloved *Strictly* community. "Nothing was ever wrong with me; society just made me feel otherwise," he reflects. Such courage, right?
Breaking new ground on *Strictly*
While Johannes hasn't snagged a *Strictly* trophy yet, he made history by being part one half of *Strictly*'s first-ever male same-sex partnership with *Great British Bake Off* champ, John Whate. Their chemistry was electric, wowing judges and viewers alike, and taking them all the Way to the finals in 2021. A groundbreaking duo indeed!
A special bond: Johannes and John Whate
During their time together, John Whate admitted he "fell in love" with his dance partner Johannes, a testament the deep connection they formed while sweating it out in rehearsals. John's engaged (and now married) state didn't lessen their bond, and after tying the knot with Paul Atkins in February 2024, these two have stayed tight-knit friends.
Celebrity partners galore
Johannes has teamed up with quite the lineup of celebrities on *Strictly*. He danced with comedian Ellie Taylor, actress Caroline Quentin, *Coronation Street* star Catherine Tyldesley, and former tennis pro Annabel Croft. In 2024, he wowed audiences once again with his partnership with former Olympian Montell Douglas. Talk about an all-star list!
Living life and welcoming new beginnings
As it stands, Johannes Radebe seems single, but he's all about opening up to dating again. His ex-dance partner Annabel Croft gave him a nudge, saying he should "live," encouraging him to get out there more. "Meeting beautiful Annabel was a reminder to start living again," Johannes shared, with a twinkle in his eyes. "She's helped me be more social, and since then, life's taken a turn." Look out, dating scene!
Ready to rock in *Kinky Boots*
Johannes will soon make his West End debut as Lola in *Kinky Boots*, kicking off in March 2026. In sharing his excitement, Johannes said, "Another dream realized. I'm stepping onto the musical stage as Lola in *Kinky Boots*, a role I've always dreamed of." With themes like individuality and acceptance, *Kinky Boots* sounds like a perfect fit for Johannes' journey.
As Johannes continues shining bright on *Strictly* and beyond, we can't wait to see where his talent, grit, and genuine authenticity take him.
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Tags: Johannes Radebe, Strictly Come Dancing, LGBTQ+ representation, Kinky Boots musical, Dance competition
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