Speculation is mounting that beloved Strictly Come Dancing professional Johannes Radebe may be preparing to waltz away from the BBC show, following a cryptic social media exchange with a fellow dancer.
Fellow Pro's 'Boo' Comment Fuels Speculation
Fears for the 38-year-old dancer's future on the programme intensified after the 2025 series finale. Radebe posted a reflective photograph on Instagram, showing him sitting alone on the Strictly stage gazing at the dancefloor. He captioned the image: "The best team on telly. @bbcstrictly."
Among the hundreds of supportive comments was a brief message from fellow professional dancer Lauren Oakley, 34. She simply wrote "Boo" alongside a red heart emoji. Fans quickly interpreted the term as one of disappointment, suggesting it could be a farewell gesture, hinting that Radebe is set to leave.
One concerned follower pleaded in the comments: "Please don’t leave Jojo. Next year is your win, I just know it." Another added: "There have been rumours you are leaving I hope it’s not true you are my favourite dancer on the show."
Exit Speech and BBC Silence Add to Doubts
Radebe has been on fans' 'quit-watch' since his elimination from the 2025 season in November, where he was partnered with TV star Alex Kingston, 62. Their departure marked the eighth couple to leave the competition that year.
His emotional exit interview with host Tess Daly raised further alarm. He told his "Strictly family": "I’m forever grateful. Thank you, thank you, thank you." Many viewers believed his phrasing sounded like a final goodbye to the series he joined in 2018.
When pressed for comment on Radebe's potential return for the 2026 series, a BBC spokesperson declined to offer any reassurance. They stated it was not possible to reveal "who may or may not be returning for the next series."
A History-Making Strictly Career
Johannes Radebe has been a core part of Strictly Come Dancing for seven years. He made television history in 2021 when he competed with Bake Off star John Whaite as the show's first all-male partnership. The duo achieved a spectacular run, finishing as runners-up to Rose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni Pernice.
His potential departure would represent a significant loss for the show's professional lineup, renowned for his vibrant choreography and infectious smile. Fans now face an anxious wait for official confirmation on whether he will return to the ballroom next year.
