Johannes Radebe

Professional Dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, Three-Time Amateur Latin South African Champion &Two-Time Professional South African Latin Championship Winner

Johannes Radebe’s Biography:

Johannes Radebe is a celebrated professional dancer, choreographer and television personality, best known for his role on Strictly Come Dancing. Renowned for his electrifying performances and powerful storytelling through dance, Johannes has become one of the most popular figures on British television. As one half of Strictly’s first all-male partnership, he helped redefine representation in mainstream entertainment, earning widespread acclaim. Openly gay, Johannes is also a passionate advocate for equality, using his platform to speak candidly about overcoming homophobia and promoting inclusion, making him an inspiring and engaging speaker.

Johannes’ journey began in South Africa, where he discovered his love for dance at the age of 11 after attending classes with his sister. His natural talent quickly became evident, leading him to compete at a high level and achieve significant success. He became a two-time Professional South African Latin Champion and a three-time Amateur Latin South African Champion. These early accomplishments established him as a standout performer and opened doors to international opportunities, including his role as a professional dancer on South Africa’s Strictly Come Dancing in 2014 and Dancing with the Stars in 2018.

Following his move to the UK, Johannes joined Strictly Come Dancing, where he steadily built a strong reputation. After his debut season without a celebrity partner, he competed with Catherine Tyldesley and Caroline Quentin, improving his placements each year. His breakthrough came when he partnered with John Whaite in the show’s first male same-sex pairing, finishing as runner-up and making television history. He has since continued to captivate audiences with partners including Ellie Taylor, while also expanding his work as a choreographer, notably contributing to RuPaul’s Drag Race: UK vs The World.

Beyond performance, Johannes is a compelling speaker who shares his personal story of resilience, identity and ambition. Drawing on experiences of overcoming adversity and breaking barriers, he delivers motivational talks that resonate with diverse audiences, particularly on themes of inclusion, representation and self-confidence.

Why Hire Johannes Radebe?

Johannes Radebe is hired as a speaker for his ability to combine world-class performance experience with an authentic and inspiring personal story. A household name through Strictly Come Dancing, he has captivated millions with his talent and charisma. Johannes speaks on topics including overcoming adversity, embracing identity and championing inclusion, delivering talks that are both uplifting and thought-provoking. His engaging presence, combined with real-life experiences of breaking barriers in the public eye, makes him an ideal choice for events seeking inspiration, entertainment and meaningful impact.

Johannes Radebe’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Johannes Radebe’s remarkable career in diversity and dancing:

• 2026 – Makes West End debut starring as Lola in Kinky Boots at the London Coliseum, reprising his touring role
• 2026 – Featured performer in the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour, appearing across a nationwide arena tour
• 2025 – Starred as Lola in the UK and Ireland tour of Kinky Boots, marking his musical theatre debut
• 2025 – Returned as a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing for Series 23, partnered with actress Alex Kingston
• 2024 – Appeared in Doctor Who episode “The Devil’s Chord” in a featured performance role
• 2023 – Published bestselling memoir Jojo: Finally Home, later optioned for a film adaptation
• 2022 – Choreographed the West-End themed ‘Rusical’ on RuPaul’s Drag Race: UK Vs The World
• 2021 – Contestant on Celebrity Masterchef
• 2018 – Professional Dancer on UK Strictly Come Dancing
• 2018 – Professional Dancer on Dancing With The Stars
• 2014 – Professional Dancer on South Africa’s Strictly Come Dancing
• Two-time Professional South African Latin Championships winner
• Three-time Amateur Latin South African Champion