Lewis Cope: The Strictly Come Dancing Star Taking the Competition by Storm
From Last-Minute Entry to Front-Runner
Emmerdale actor Lewis Cope has been announced as the latest celebrity contestant on Strictly Come Dancing after Game of Thrones star Kristian Nairn said he was withdrawing for health reasons. What began as an unexpected opportunity has transformed into a remarkable success story for the 30-year-old performer, who has captivated audiences and judges alike with his impressive dance skills and stage presence.
The significance of Cope’s journey on Strictly cannot be overstated. As a replacement contestant, he had little time to prepare mentally for the challenge ahead. Announcing his participation on BBC’s The One Show, Cope said the programme had got in contact on Monday asking if he wanted to join this year’s series. The actor, who plays Nicky Milligan in Emmerdale, said he was walking down Oxford Street on his way to meet a friend when he received the phone call.
Making History with Perfect Scores
Cope’s performances have consistently impressed the judges. Soap star Lewis Cope and dancer Katya Jones have scored the first perfect 40 of the 2025 series of Strictly Come Dancing, after a “spooktacular” dance. The former Emmerdale star, 30, and the professional dancer, 36, wore matching suits for their couple’s choice to Creep by Radiohead, during which Cope did some tap dancing.
The former Emmerdale actor came joint second in Strictly Come Dancing’s musicals week despite receiving criticism from the judges. Lewis Cope, 30, and his partner Katya Jones danced the salsa to Dance At The Gym from West Side Story on Saturday, December 6. His consistent high scores and audience appeal have established him as a serious contender for the competition.
A Performer with Experience
Lewis Cope (born 19 March 1995) is an English actor. After beginning his career as a child actor appearing in a West End production of Billy Elliot the Musical, he competed in the Sky One dance series Got to Dance, finishing as a runner-up on the fourth series in 2013. This dance background, combined with his theatrical training, has given him a solid foundation for the demanding routines on Strictly.
Cope’s journey resonates with viewers as a testament to seizing unexpected opportunities. His transformation from a replacement contestant to the bookies’ favourite demonstrates that preparation meeting opportunity can create extraordinary outcomes. As the competition progresses towards the semi-finals, Lewis Cope continues to prove that sometimes the best stories come from the most unexpected beginnings, inspiring audiences across the UK with his dedication, talent, and infectious enthusiasm for dance.