From homelessness to the West End: The meteoric rise of Johannes Radebe
In short: Johannes Radebe transformed from a young dancer facing systemic barriers in South Africa to a household name in British television. After enduring homelessness and early career struggles, he became a trailblazing figure on Strictly Come Dancing, eventually pivoting to musical theatre and national broadcasting as a newly minted British citizen.
Born in 1987 in Zamdela, South Africa, Johannes Radebe’s journey to international stardom was far from linear. As a child, he faced homophobic bullying and systemic obstacles related to his race and class while pursuing ballroom dancing. At 13, he left home to live with dance coaches in Gauteng, eventually attending school in Ennerdale. His dedication to the craft led him through periods of extreme instability, including times spent sleeping in dance studios or the back of taxis while working in Johannesburg.
Radebe’s professional foundation was built on years of rigorous training and competition. He secured the Professional South African Latin championship title twice and the Amateur Latin title three times. Before his breakthrough in the UK, he spent seven years performing on cruise ships and competed on South Africa’s version of Strictly Come Dancing, reaching the final in both his seasons. His transition to the British iteration of the show in 2018 marked a turning point, eventually leading to his historic role in the first male same-sex pairing on the UK format alongside John Whaite in 2021.
Beyond the ballroom, Radebe has diversified his career across media and stage. He won the Celebrity Christmas Special of The Great British Sewing Bee in 2022 and published his bestselling memoir, Jojo: Finally Home, in 2023. His theatrical debut as Lola in the UK tour of Kinky Boots in 2025 showcased his versatility, a role he is set to reprise at the London Coliseum in 2026. Now a British citizen as of February 2026, Radebe continues to expand his influence, moving into a co-presenting role on Strictly Come Dancing alongside Josh Widdicombe and Emma Willis.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Johannes Radebe
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