Lewis Cope Joins Strictly Come Dancing 2025 After Last-Minute Call

Lewis Cope, the star of the popular soap opera Emmerdale, has been announced as one of the 15 contestants for Strictly Come Dancing 2025. His inclusion comes after Kristian Nairn, known for his role in Game of Thrones, had to withdraw from the competition due to “unexpected medical reasons.” Cope expressed his surprise at the opportunity, saying, “It just happened totally last minute for me but I love that. The excitement for me has been helpful and I’ve maybe enjoyed it more than I think I would have if I’d known for [a longer time].”

As the show prepares to launch, scheduled for September 20, 2025, Cope’s background adds an intriguing layer to his participation. At just 30 years old, he hails from a large family with 14 siblings, boasting 13 nieces and nephews. His brothers, Adam, Danny, and Peter, have made their mark as professional boxers, winning the Northern area championship. In contrast, Cope chose a different path, stating, “I’m from a family of 14. Most of my brothers are boxers, but I chose to dance.”

Cope is best known for his portrayal of Nicky Milligan on Emmerdale, a role he held from 2022 to 2024. His character quickly became embroiled in a significant storyline, developing a relationship with Gabby Thomas, played by Rosie Bentham. As the plot unfolded, it was revealed that Nicky is the grandson of Frank Tate and had been working with his father, Caleb Milligan, to undermine Kim Tate, portrayed by Claire King.

Cope’s passion for performance began early; he made his theatrical debut at the age of 11, playing Michael in the acclaimed West End production of Billy Elliot: The Musical. He was also part of the street dance troupe Ruff Diamond, which finished as runners-up on Sky’s Got To Dance in 2013. Following a stint at drama school at 18, Cope secured roles in shows like Doctors and Hetty Feather, and appeared as Marcus Hynde in an episode of Vera in 2021.

On the personal front, Cope has been in a relationship with actress Rachelle Lopez for approximately eight years. The couple frequently shares affectionate moments on social media, showcasing their bond. In a heartfelt post from December, Cope expressed his feelings, writing, “Six years of Dublin at Christmas with you. Wouldn’t have it any other way.”

As anticipation builds for Strictly Come Dancing, the excitement surrounding Cope’s participation is palpable. Fans will be eager to see how he navigates the dance floor, particularly with the unique circumstances surrounding his late entry into the competition. The show promises to deliver a blend of talent, drama, and entertainment, as it returns on September 20 at 18:40 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.