Katya Jones and Lewis Cope on Strictly Come Dancing on September 27, 2025 / BBC
Lewis Cope has admitted to being confused by claims that he has an advantage while competing on Strictly Come Dancing.
The former Emmerdale actor, who is partnered with Katya Jones, previously had minimal dance training as an 11-year-old when he appeared on the West End in Billy Elliot.
The revelations led some Strictly fans to complain that he has an unfair leg-up on the other contestants, especially after it was discovered that he appeared on the show Got To Dance, making it to the final.
Speaking to Metro about the furore, he explained: “I don’t really know where all that came from, to be honest. I trained as an actor, I danced a bit when I was a teen, but haven’t since.
“It’s only ever really been acting for me for a long, long time – so I don’t really know where that came from.
“I don’t really take notice of it though – everyone’s so strong, and anyone can pull out a brilliant performance at any point.”
He added: “To call me professionally-trained or a professional dancer seems a bit bizarre, especially now that I’m working with these pros on the show.
“It’s kind of an insult to them, really, to suggest I’m on their level when they’ve dedicated their lives to becoming as brilliant as they are.”
Cope’s comments came ahead of his appearance on last night’s show, which saw him earn the highest score of the series to date – including the first 10.
