Devoted viewers of Strictly Come Dancing have been left fearing that one of the show's most beloved professional dancers, Johannes Radebe, may be preparing to leave the BBC series for good.
An Emotional Goodbye Sparks Speculation
The concern arose following Sunday night's results show, which saw actress Alex Kingston and her professional partner Johannes Radebe eliminated from the competition. The pair lost the dance-off to Balvinder Sopal and her partner.
After the result was announced, Radebe delivered a moving speech to co-host Tess Daly. He addressed his "Strictly family," stating: "Bye to my Strictly family, I love you. To my Strictly family, I'm forever grateful. Thank you, thank you, thank you." His words were met with loud applause and cheers from his fellow dancers on the balcony.
Fans Voice Their Worries and Theories
Many fans watching at home immediately interpreted his heartfelt thanks as a potential final farewell. Taking to social media platform X, one viewer wrote: "#Strictly That sounded like a final farewell from Johannes! Is he going? Due to musical theatre."
Another echoed the sentiment, speculating: "I got the feeling that it's Johannes last series? Because it seemed like he said goodbye to the pros and judges and everyone? Really sad if he does go, but I wish him well."
A third fan connected the dots with his burgeoning stage career, commenting: "I thought this and wondered if it was just for Kinky Boots - which he is FABULOUS in!... Johannes is always just my absolute favourite."
A Thriving Career Beyond the Ballroom
The fan theories are not without foundation. Johannes has been building a significant profile outside of Strictly Come Dancing. Earlier this year, he starred as Lola in the UK tour of the hit musical Kinky Boots.
He is scheduled to reprise this role when the production moves to London's prestigious Coliseum theatre in March next year. Furthermore, his 2023 memoir, Jojo: Finally Home, was a bestseller and is now slated for adaptation into a musical film by Helena Spring Films and Arrested Industries.
The elimination itself also caused a stir among fans, with many expressing devastation at Alex Kingston's departure after the result was leaked online prior to the broadcast. One shocked supporter said they were "absolutely devastated," while another called it the "correct decision." The BBC has not commented on speculation regarding Johannes Radebe's future with Strictly Come Dancing.
