Lawrence Robb, best known for portraying Mackenzie Boyd on the ITV soap Emmerdale, will soon swap the Dales for the dancefloor as he joins the cast of Strictly Come Dancing. The Scottish actor, born in November 1991 in Glasgow, has a background in dance and musical theatre that may prove handy.
Early Life and Training
Lawrence was creative from an early age, singing in the school choir and acting in the Christmas pantomime at 14. He later attended the Dance School of Scotland, described as "a centre of excellence for vocational dance and musical theatre." The 34-year-old is also a singer and has posted covers of songs to social media.
Career Highlights
After moving to London, Lawrence appeared in an episode of the Sky Atlantic series I Hate Suzie as Matt and in stage productions including Into the Woods, Mojo, and Legally Blonde. In 2020, he joined Emmerdale as Mack, Moira Dingle's brother, and has had storylines including marrying Charity Dingle and being kidnapped by John Sugden. He also starred in the "Corriedale" crossover with Coronation Street in January.
Personal Life
Lawrence was previously in a relationship with actress Joanne Thomson, but they parted ways. In 2025, he confirmed he was dating West End star Pamela Blair, often sharing insights into their life on Facebook. Last month, they attended a wedding, with Pamela in a yellow polka dot satin maxi dress and Lawrence in a cream double breasted blazer.
Speaking about joining Strictly, Lawrence said: "I don't know who's more excited about this, me or my mother. I can't quite believe that I am going to be getting my dancing shoes on this September on one of my favourite shows of all time! It's a dream come true, and I can't wait to bring my all to ballroom. Wish me luck, and any advice is very welcome - trust me I'll need it!"
His Emmerdale co-stars have shown support, with Amy Walsh saying "Omg omg omg!!!!!!!!!!! Amazing!!!!!!!!" and Isabel Hodgins adding "Dream stealer can't wait to see you waltz in a kilt x." Former co-star Lewis Cope said "Yes brother!!! I am so excited for you."
