Johannes Radebe, one of the few black professional dancers to grace the Strictly Come Dancing stage, has amassed millions of devoted fans across Britain since his arrival in 2018. The South African performer, now 38, has openly expressed how deeply moved he is by the warm reception he has received, countering assertions that Britain is plagued by racism and inhospitable to immigrants.
A Newfound Home in Britain
Radebe's affection for England has grown so profound that he recently became a British citizen, having fallen in love with the country—particularly the coastal town of Bridlington in Yorkshire. He enthusiastically shared, 'This is a very progressive country. This is where my artistry was allowed to flourish and I will forever be grateful for that.'
He elaborated on his experiences in Bridlington, noting, 'When I am in Bridlington, I get free breakfast and free coffee. It feels like your mothers and sisters are there. Britain feels like home. I know what love feels like now. It's beautiful. Because of Strictly, I am so loved.' This heartfelt sentiment underscores his positive integration into British society.
Citizenship and Career Milestones
In 2024, Radebe revealed that he had successfully passed the Life in the UK test, a key step in his citizenship application. Born in Zamdela, South Africa, he began ballroom dancing at the tender age of seven and went on to win the Professional South African Latin championships twice, showcasing his early talent and dedication.
On Strictly Come Dancing, Radebe has partnered with notable celebrities including Coronation Street's Catherine Tyldesley, tennis player Annabel Croft, and most recently, Doctor Who's Alex Kingston. He made history in 2021 as part of the show's first male same-sex couple with Bake Off star John Whaite, reaching the final and breaking new ground in television representation.
Despite rumours of his departure from Strictly, Radebe is set to sign a new deal to return when the show resumes later this year. Currently, he is starring in the musical Kinky Boots at the London Coliseum, further cementing his status in the British entertainment industry.
BBC Revokes Licence for Georgian Version
In a related development, the BBC has withdrawn permission for Georgia's version of Strictly Come Dancing, titled Dancing with the Stars. This decision comes after the broadcasting channel, Imedi TV, was sanctioned by the Foreign Office last month for being labelled a pro-Putin mouthpiece spreading Russian propaganda.
Dancing with the Stars concluded its 14th season on February 23, just one day before the sanctions were imposed. However, the show cannot operate without a licence from the BBC, which has now been revoked. Until shortly before the sanctions were announced, Imedi TV was controlled by Hunnewell Partners, a London City firm.
BBC Studios stated, 'Following Imedi's recent inclusion on the UK Government's sanctions list, BBC Studios withdrew the broadcaster's format licence for Dancing with the Stars.' This move highlights the broader geopolitical implications affecting entertainment formats and international broadcasting rights.
