Latest news with #Strictly
RTÉ News
4 hours ago
- Entertainment
- RTÉ News
'I can't believe I'm doing this and calling it a job!'
Johannes Radebe has to be one of the happiest people on the planet. And why not? The Strictly Come Dancing star is on tour in hit musical Kinky Boots and he can't wait to return to Dublin. It's quite remarkable to consider where Johannes Radebe came from and went through on his way to his current status as a much-loved pro dancer on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing show. As well as becoming a regular on Strictly, he's embarked on tours, and even found time to write a memoir, Jojo: Finally Home. That book is now being turned into a film. It's some story. Born in Zamdela, part of South Africa's Orange Free State, Johannes suffered homophobic bullying as a child, and had to endure race and class prejudice when competing at ballroom dancing. While living in Johannesburg and learning his trade, he spent some time homeless, but eventually became a dance teacher before learning his trade as a dancer on cruise ships. He then became a pro dancer on South Africa's version of Strictly Come Dancing before joining the touring cast of dance show Burn the Floor. In 2018 the BBC brought him to the mothership show, and he's been a Strictly showstopper ever since. He's currently touring in the lead role of Lola in Kinky Boots, the hit musical about a struggling shoe factory owner who meets Lola, a drag queen whose sparkle and unsteady heels might just hold the answer to saving his ailing business. The show plays at Dublin's Bord Gáis Energy Theatre from July 15 for a five-night run. It's a trip he's happy to make as it rekindles many happy memories. Greeting him on Zoom, his upbeat personality seems permanently set at 11. This guy oozes good vibes. John Byrne: So, Johannes, how much are you looking forward to bringing Kinky Boots back to Dublin? Johannes Radede: I've been to Ireland before, with my own tour, it was called Freedom Unleashed, and it happened two years ago. I didn't go back with my last tour because dates didn't work, and I was gutted. Because that's where I closed my show. You guys are a fantastic, fantastic audience. I go to a lot of places. I closed my show there and it was one of the best nights. Me and the entire team can agree with that. I remember I was onstage and everybody was chanting 'Ole, ole, ole, ole' and I felt like I was at a soccer tournament. I felt like a football star. You guys made me feel like that - and I'll never forget it. You're playing Lola in Kinky Boots. It's the kind of upbeat, inspirational role that you were clearly made for. You must have a hoot in those boots! You say the role was designed for me . . . When I first came to this country [the UK], I appeared with the heels on Strictly Come Dancing back in 2019. People said, Oh Johannes, you really need to play the role of Lola. And they hadn't even heard me sing! So, I guess I am everything that Lola represents. She is bold. She is confident. There are things about her that I still have to catch up to, but honestly I am thrilled to be doing it because it has been something I have secretly been wanting to do. But I would never confidently admit it to anybody, to say I would love to play that role because the singing - for me - was an issue. I just didn't want it to be celebrity casting, you know? At some point, honestly, it felt like that when I heard about the opportunity of doing Kinky Boots and auditioning for it. It took me two years to come to the decision to finally audition. I wanted to make sure that I was ready, so I went for singing lessons for two years, I went to acting classes, coaching. And after two years, as I said, I was 'Okay, may I please audition for this role?' And I've been loving it. How is the tour going so far? It's marvellous. Remember: I come to these places for one-nighters. So to be in a town for a whole week, you get to really experience the town itself. So that, for me, has been amazing. But getting back to the show - it's phenomenal. It's been received so well. Kinky Boots has a cult following. People love that show and they've loved it for many years. It's so beautiful that we have the show back. And not only back in London, it is touring again. And it's sending the message of the show: let's all be kind to one another, make space for one another, and accept each other for who we are. I can't tell you when I say that message with everything that's going on in the world - iIt's so important. To be so well-received on tour, it is the most beautiful thing. We've managed to bring theatre to people - which is to bring joy and perspective to people. And that's what we see happening every single night. People coming in numbers to really just support this show has really restored my faith in humanity. I can't believe I'm doing this and I'm calling it a job! Honestly, to be able to bring those four elements of musical theatre - which are acting, singing, dancing and dialogue - it's the most beautiful thing. But I'm surrounded by a cast of phenomenal people. They are phenomenal people. And so talented. With all that's going on in your career, and your memoir Jojo being made into a film, it's a very exciting time for you, isn't it? Listen, everything that's happening is obviously surreal. But at the same time - and please don't get me wrong when I say that - I'm honestly humbled by it all. It takes me back to how much one has had to go through, to sacrifice and compromise. I always say I am living a lovely, beautiful life at the moment. That's me doing it, without my family, my friends, without my tribe and community back home in South Africa. The most beautiful thing this platform has done is that it has given me the opportunity to give back to the community, the community that really helped me, and I wanted my success to be their success. I have always felt guilty for achieving all these things - but with this book being turned into a film . . . my people, for the first time, will have their story told back to them. And I think there's nothing greater I can give back to them - honestly - than doing something that tells their story. And highlights how valuable they are as human beings. I'm hoping this whole process really says to them they are worthy as individuals. Then I think I will have done my job. And then there's the next run of Strictly Come Dancing on the horizon . . . I'm really looking forward to the new Strictly Come Dancing season and I hope to be there for many, many years. And when you realise the reach of it . . . and you're shaking your tush in front of millions of people, and their living rooms are happy places. I'm all in. Honestly John, I'm so happy. And I'm going to finish this tour in Dublin! I've been on tour since December and finish in Dublin and I set it up that way because of what I experienced the last time. And believe me when I tell you that I'm looking forward to being back. We'll be there and I can't wait to part-hay!
Daily Mirror
20 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Strictly's judging line-up confirmed after fears over star's exit
The judging line-up for the 23rd series of Strictly Come Dancing has been revealed after fans of the BBC competition await the latest batch of celebrities The latest batch of Strictly Come Dancing celebrity contestants may be being kept under wraps but the judging panel has been confirmed. And for many fans they are now breathing a sigh of relief. Ahead of the latest series of the popular BBC dance contest, those watching from behind the desk have been announced. Taking to social media, the official Strictly page shared the exciting news. With a reel of images of the stars and the theme tune, the BBC show said on Instagram: "We've been limbering-up and practicing our curtsies, ready for the new series of Strictly with our amazing judging panel, Shirley, Anton, Motsi and Craig and our incredible MBEs Tess and Claudia - Congratulations on your FAB-U-LOUS achievement!" Celebrities were quick to comment on the post. Among those sharing their delight was professional dancer Amy Dowden, who wrote: "Can't wait xxx" alongside a number of love heart emojis. Dianne Buswell and Karen Hauer also shared their glee. As too did Motsi Mabuse, who took to the comments section as she gushed: "And just like that… we're BACK on @bbcstrictly. Let the sparkle, the sweat and the sequins begin! "Can't wait to share another magical season with all of you. #StrictlyComeDancing #TeamStrictly #GratefulHeart" The announcement comes as fans had thought Craig Revel Horwood had hinted he would be leaving the show. However, they have been left pleased that this is not the case. While the latest batch of famous faces has not been officially announced, the rumour mill is in full swing. Among those linked to the dance floor is former footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink. The 53-year-old Dutch sportsman is thought to be the latest in a long line of football legends to take to the Strictly stage, following the likes of Robbie Savage, Alex Scott and Tony Adams. A source told The Sun earlier this month: 'Jimmy has a huge fanbase from his years playing in the Premier League and is a very likeable character. Show producers are always keen to book a retired footballer as it gets footie fans tuning into the series and becoming unlikely fans of the show. "Jimmy has a competitive edge and is going to get his head in the game.' Others tipped for an appearance include Olympian Sir Mo Farah, Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey - better known as Nitro - and former Big Brother contestant Yinrun Huang. Bosses will be hoping for a drama-free 23rd series off-stage. The show has been dragged into disrepute in recent years amid accusations that professional dancers have been physically abusive to their celebrity dance partners. While the celebs have also been accused of offensive behaviour.
Wales Online
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Mixed opinion as Strictly Come Dancing 2025 judging panel and co-hosts confirmed
Mixed opinion as Strictly Come Dancing 2025 judging panel and co-hosts confirmed The full judging panel and presenting line-up has been confirmed for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing - splitting fan opinion Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly are confirmed to return for the 2025 season of Strictly Come Dancing (Image: Mike Marsland, Mike Marsland/WireImagevia Getty Images ) Strictly Come Dancing is gearing up for the glitz and glamour of its 2025 series, revealing its line-up of judges and presenters; though not without stirring up mixed reactions from fans. The BBC took to the show's social media to confirm which familiar faces will be returning to the panel as well as the dynamic duo set to host the show. As has been the case since 2021, the judging panel will once again feature the beloved quartet of Anton Du Beke, Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, and Craig Revel Horwood. The presenting team also remains a stead force, with Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman bringing their trademark energy back to the stage. The BBC shared: "We've been limbering-up and practicing our curtseys, ready for the new series of Strictly with our amazing judging panel, Shirley, Anton, Motsi and Craig and our incredible MBE's Tess and Claudia - Congratulations on your FAB-U-LOUS achievement!", reports the Express. However, despite the return of these beloved TV personalities, some viewers' have been left feeling underwhelmed, as many were expecting a refresh particularly in light of speculation that Craig might depart the beloved dance contest. Expressions of surprise and relief have come thick and fast from the audience. Victoria Battman commented: "Wait what! ! ! I thought Craig was leaving happy he's staying but! ! ! ! ! ?". Article continues below Ashleigh Sarah Luckhurst pondered: "Am I only one that thinks the judging panel needs a good shake up? Especially after last year and blatant favouritism regardless of dance skills." And Karen Fox expressed joy at the news: "So happy Craig is there. I thought he was leaving. Wouldn't be the same without him." Some have opined that judges Shirley Ballas or Motsi Mabuse should have been replaced. Wendy Kitching stated: "Should got rid of Motsi and Shirley need a new vamp." While Sylvie Beckett echoed the sentiment with: "Shirley and Motsi need replacing." Conversely, others expressed excitement for Strictly's return sans alterations. Emmanuel Tsekouras shared: "I love these judges." Karen Proctor also showed anticipation: "Can't wait to watch the new season in September." For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter Article continues below Strictly 2024's crowning moment was comedian Chris McCausland's victory alongside professional dancer Dianne Buswell. Their unforgettable "blackout" dance captured the hearts of viewers on social media, featuring a unique move where Chris covered Dianne's eyes as darkness enveloped them, before re-emerging with her atop his shoulders amidst dazzling pyrotechnics, encapsulating his personal challenges as the programme's inaugural blind contestant following total sight loss at 22 due to retinitis.
Scotsman
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Louis Smith Heading to Scotland in 2026 for Jukebox Idols Tour
Former Olympic gymnast, Strictly Come Dancing champion and Masked Dancer winner Louis Smith MBE has announced he is joining Strictly Come Dancing's Nadiya Bychkova and the platinum-selling vocal harmony group The Overtones in the cast of Jukebox Idols, the new song & dance spectacular for 2026. Sign up to our Arts and Culture newsletter, get the latest news and reviews from our specialist arts writers Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... The nationwide tour will play 29 dates next year, landing at Perth Concert Hall on 2nd June and Glasgow's Pavilion Theatre on 28th June. Brought to you by the producers of the West End smash hit Rip It Up 60s, Jukebox Idols is a non-stop whirlwind of the greatest hits from the '50s and '60s' biggest music icons that celebrates the era-defining music that poured from jukeboxes around the globe to create the unforgettable soundtrack of a generation. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Alongside Nadiya and The Overtones, Louis will be joining a stellar supporting cast of dancers as they swing, bop, jive and rock 'n' roll their way throughout the ultimate jukebox show, bringing to life the show-stopping hits from legends such as Nat King Cole, Elvis Presley, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Motown and many more - a song and dance spectacle for music lovers everywhere. The Jukebox Idols tour will play dates in Perth and Glasgow in 2026 Louis Smith became one of Britain's sporting superstars after winning medals at three separate Olympic Games. He shot to fame at the Beijing Olympics in 2008 by winning a bronze medal in the pommel horse, before winning silver medals at both the London 2012 and Rio De Janeiro 2016 Olympic Games. After the London 2012 Olympics, Louis took part in and won that year's series of Strictly Come Dancing, lifting the coveted Glitterball trophy with his professional dance partner Flavia Cacace. In 2021 he was crowned winner of The Masked Dancer. Louis was then awarded the honour of MBE in the 2013 New Year Honours for his services to gymnastics. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Following his success on Strictly, Louis returned to the stage to star in the hit dance shows Rip It Up The '50s, Rip It The '60s and Rip It Up the '70sbetween 2017 and 2019. Jukebox Idols - (l-r) Louis Smith, Nadiya Bychkova and The Overtones. Looking ahead to the tour, Smith said, 'I love dancing, so I'm truly thrilled to be joining the cast for the Jukebox Idols tour next year, and relishing the challenge. Every night during the Rip It Up tours I'd tell people that those shows are the hardest thing I have ever done – even harder than competing at the Olympics and Strictly. I'm not sure anyone ever believed me, but I was telling the truth! 'Seriously, I can't wait to join Nadiya and The Overtones on tour. We're going to have a blast bringing this show to theatres across the UK. We'll see everybody on the dance floor.' Nadiya Bychkova, originally from Ukraine, is a two-time World Champion and European Champion in Ballroom and Latin '10' Dance, winning in 2014 and 2015. She is also a multiple-time Slovenian Ballroom and Latin Champion and has participated in the Bosnian version of Strictly Come Dancing. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Following her success, in 2017, she was invited to join the UK's cast of professional dancers on Strictly Come Dancing, and has since partnered EastEnders star Davood Ghadami, Blue's Lee Ryan, professional footballer David James, TV presenter Dan Walker, Bros' Matt Goss and Olympian Tom Dean. In 2021, Nadiya co-headlined the first show to reopen the London Palladium after the pandemic, Here Come The Boys, alongside fellow Strictly professionals Aljaž Škorjanec , Graziano Di Prima, Nikita Kuzmin and Pasha Kovalev, before touring the show across the UK in the summer of 2022. Nadiya then co-headlined successful UK tours Once Upon A Time (2023) and Behind The Magic (2024). Known for their exquisite vocals, pitch perfect harmonies and effortless dance moves, The Overtones are the perfect mix of originality and classic nostalgia, making them one of the UK's most in demand live acts. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Comprising of Mark Franks, Darren Everest, Jay James and Mike Crawshaw, the group has achieved multi-platinum record sales over the past decade, releasing six studio albums and enjoying twelve sold-out UK tours, firmly establishing them as one of the UK's most popular and prolific live acts. After headlining many of the UK's most prestigious venues, including The London Palladium and The Royal Albert Hall, The Overtones have also performed at incredible events such as The Queen's Diamond Jubilee at Buckingham Palace and singing to over one million people at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Love Island stars join Tequila Rose to launch UK's first ‘festi-sential' vending machine
UK's first festi-sential vending machine LONDON, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tequila Rose is ensuring that festival goers will be looking hot all summer, no matter what the British weather throws at them. The nation's favourite pink drink teamed up with Love Island legend Harriet Blackmore and Strictly's Tasha Ghouri to launch a 'festi-sentials' vending machine just in time for festival goers heading for the summer's biggest events. Lip gloss is the one thing that females aged 18-44 say they can't live without at a festival, with more than one in three saying it's the first thing in their bag in a poll by the UK's favourite strawberry shot brand. So Tequila Rose devised the UK's first vending machine dispensing 'festi-sentials' in a festival glam bag to hundreds of music lovers who queued up at London's Paddington Station. The giveaway coincided with Strictly star Tasha Ghouri revealing her top three festi-sentials: lip gloss, cochlear implant batteries, and a mini hairbrush are her three non-negotiables for any festival. Tasha said: 'I can never go without my lip gloss at a festival, and love to have a little top up throughout the day. 'Gloss is the one thing out of all my makeup that I feel naked or like something's missing if I don't have it on. 'Batteries for my cochlear implants are an absolute essential because I won't be able to hear without them, and I love my mini-hairbrush, which fits perfectly in my handbag.' The Tequila Rose poll of 2,000 female festival-goers aged 18 to 44 showed more than a third agreed with Tasha (35%) and chose lip gloss as their go-to glam item to get dolled up while camping, while mascara (21%) ranked second and concealer in third (13%). Meanwhile, a phone (71%) and portable charger (55%) were the festival essentials Gen Z and Millennial girls can't live without, along with a mini-mirror (30%) and alcohol (26%). Sophie McLeay, Tequila Rose Brand Manager, said: 'Festival season is in full swing, and our research shows that glam is a top priority for our consumers as they get ready to escape real life and embrace the festival vibe with their friends. 'We know looking and feeling good is all part of the experience, and Tequila Rose is here to be part of that glam moment. We're encouraging everyone to bring the glam and drink the pink this festival season.' The festival must-have beauty items Gen Z and Millennial women can't live without: Lip gloss (35%) Mascara (21%) Concealer (13%) There's not one, I take them all! (7%) Eyebrow pencil (7%) Eyeliner (6%) Highlighter (4%) Blusher (3%) Other (3%) Gen Z and Millennial women's festival essentials they can't live without Phone (71%) Portable charger (55%) Comfortable shoes (52%) Toilet roll (48%) Hairbrush (41%) Makeup (35%) Mirror (30%) Dry shampoo (29%) Alcohol (26%) Mini first aid kit (25%) Earplugs/ eye mask (22%) Small backpack (21%) Showstopping outfits (18%) Bumbag (16%) Speaker (14%) Throughout the festival season, consumers will be in with a chance to get their hands on the limited edition Tequila Rose glam bags via the TequilaRoseUK Instagram page. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: CONTACT: To ask for a sample or any further inquiries, please contact Democracy PR at 0161 881 5941 or ashleigh@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
