Lewis Cope’s Remarkable Family: Growing Up with 13 Siblings

Introduction: A Family Like No Other

In the world of entertainment, few stories are as captivating as that of Lewis Cope, the Emmerdale actor who played Nicky Miligan and is now dazzling audiences on Strictly Come Dancing with partner Katya Jones. What makes his journey particularly remarkable is his extraordinary family background. Born on 19 March 1995 in Hartlepool, County Durham, Cope has 13 siblings, making him part of one of Britain’s largest families. This unique upbringing has shaped not only his character but also his successful career in the performing arts, demonstrating how family bonds and support can propel talent to national recognition.

Life in a Family of Fourteen

Lewis is the 10th in the lineup of 14 children, growing up in what can only be described as a bustling household. The family thrived in a home with eight bedrooms and two staircases echoing with constant movement, described as a whirlwind of activity filled with joy. The large family dynamic provided constant social interaction and taught valuable life lessons. Three of his brothers, Adam, Danny and Peter, got into competitive boxing, with the trio all managing to win a Northern area title. Despite the sporting achievements of his siblings, Lewis carved his own path in the performing arts, discovering a passion for dance and acting at a young age.

Family Support and Career Success

The Cope family’s support has been instrumental in Lewis’s journey to stardom. Lewis revealed that he has 13 siblings, and a further 16 nieces and nephews, creating an expansive support network. Some of his family have attended Strictly to support him, including one brother who won tickets in the ballot rather than being invited by Lewis. His success has also inspired the younger generation, with one of his nephews starting dance lessons after watching him on Strictly. Beyond his immediate family, Lewis maintains a long-term relationship with girlfriend Rachelle Lopez, with the couple together eight years and sharing a love of dancing and acting.

Conclusion: Legacy of a Large Family

Lewis Cope’s story illustrates how a large family environment can forge resilience, determination, and success. Growing up as one of 14 children in Hartlepool provided him with the teamwork skills, emotional intelligence, and competitive drive necessary to excel in the demanding world of entertainment. His journey from West End productions to television stardom and now Strictly Come Dancing demonstrates that with family support and personal dedication, extraordinary achievements are possible. As Lewis continues to inspire viewers nationwide, his family remains his foundation, proving that strong family bonds and mutual support can help individuals reach remarkable heights in their chosen fields.