Strictly Star Johannes Radebe Puts Quitting Rumours to Rest
Beloved Strictly Come Dancing professional Johannes Radebe has directly addressed widespread fan speculation that he might be leaving the iconic BBC competition. The 38-year-old South African choreographer, who joined the show's professional lineup in 2018, has firmly dismissed concerns that his emotional elimination speech during the 2025 series signaled a permanent departure.
Clarification on The Graham Norton Show
Appearing on The Graham Norton Show alongside Hollywood stars Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, Radebe was questioned about his future with the programme. When host Graham Norton expressed worries shared by many viewers, noting how "boo-hoo" Radebe had been during his farewell to celebrity partner Alex Kingston, the dancer responded with clear reassurance.
"Graham, I will do that show for as long as they will have me," Radebe declared. "I promise, I will. That is a magical, sparkling world. I love it." Dressed in a striking pink suit, he maintained his characteristic composure while delivering this definitive statement about his continued involvement.
Origins of the Departure Speculation
The rumours began circulating after Radebe's emotional exit from the 2025 series, where he and actress Alex Kingston were voted out in sixth place. During his elimination speech, Radebe told Kingston: "Thank you, because I have never grinned this much in my life, for the past couple of weeks with you. Thank you, Alex, for being a trooper."
He continued, addressing his Strictly family: "I love you. I'm forever grateful. Thank you, thank you, thank you." This heartfelt delivery led many fans to flood social media with concerned messages, interpreting his words as a potential farewell to the show altogether.
Previous Reassurances and Current Projects
This isn't the first time Radebe has needed to quash departure rumours. In November 2024, he took to Instagram to state unequivocally: "I'm going nowhere. I love @bbcstrictly and I want to do this beautiful show for as long as they want me – and the body will allow. Nothing will take me away."
Between Strictly series, Radebe maintains a busy performance schedule. He's currently preparing to reprise his role as Lola in Kinky Boots when the production transfers to the London Coliseum in March, having made his theatre debut in the musical's UK tour last year. He has previously dismissed suggestions that this theatrical commitment would interfere with his Strictly duties.
Broader Strictly Come Dancing Context
Radebe's clarification comes as Strictly Come Dancing undergoes other significant changes. The search continues for new hosts to replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, with current frontrunners including Zoe Ball, Bradley Walsh, and Alex Jones. Show bosses are reportedly considering around ten names for the presenting duo position.
Meanwhile, the professional dancer lineup for the upcoming series won't be officially confirmed by the BBC until August, ahead of the autumn premiere. The 2025 series was won by former Lioness Karen Carney and her professional partner Carlos Gu, while the current live tour features various contestants performing across the country.
For now, Strictly fans can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that one of the show's most cherished professionals has no plans to leave the dancefloor anytime soon.
