Former Strictly Come Dancing winner Harry Judd has revealed an emotional family milestone, confessing the moment left him "crying". The McFly musician is preparing to take on the role of Coach Bolton in High School Musical on the London stage, stepping into the part previously held by Jason Donovan. However, he's not the sole performer in the household.
Daughter Lola's West End Debut
Harry and his wife Izzy have posted an update regarding their daughter Lola, who has just taken her first curtain call in the West End production of Matilda, performing the lead role. Lola, now 10, hadn't yet been born when her father claimed the glitterball trophy following his Strictly victory in 2011 with professional partner Aliona Vilani. He defeated Waterloo Road star Chelsee Healey in the series finale.
Beyond securing the public vote, Harry emerged as the judges' top choice, achieving a perfect score of 40 points for two performances, reports Wales Online.
Proud Parents Celebrate
Now, as the drummer prepares to portray Colton, the father-of-three has been championing his daughter Lola, who appears destined for her own entertainment career. Lola is among four young actresses sharing the titular role in the Royal Shakespeare Company's stage adaptation of Roald Dahl's tale, currently playing at the Cambridge Theatre.
Her delighted parents, who also have two young sons, attended to witness her opening night and enthusiastically posted an Instagram video clip capturing her taking a bow as her debut performance concluded. Izzy revealed: "Lola's first curtain call as Matilda alongside her brilliant classmates at Crunchem Hall.... A moment we'll never forget."
Harry added: "I'll never forget this moment. The only time I've cried more was when she was born."
Celebrity Congratulations
The couple received an outpouring of support as fans rushed to share their congratulations. Girls Aloud singer and former Strictly participant Kimberley Walsh commented: "Honestly guys I don't know how you do it I would be a wreck. Go Lola."
West End performer Lucie Jones wrote: "I can't (crying emoji) AMAZING Lola congratulations darling girl!" Meanwhile, Zoe Ball posted: "Oh wow congrats to you all but amazing for your Lola. some gorgeous news."
The Masked Singer presenter Joel Dommett chimed in: "Yesssss! So so so cool." While another former Strictly champion Ore Oduba remarked: "Wowww oh the biggest congratulations all of you."
Harry's mother, Emma, who proved immensely popular with audiences during her appearance alongside him on the BBC's Celebrity Race Across The World, stated: "A totally unforgettable experience! Lola was just amazing and I couldn't be prouder of her. A real pinch me moment."
