From a Chinese National Champion to a global LGBTQ+ role model
In short: Carlos Gu didn't just find success on the ballroom floor; he used his platform to navigate complex cultural identities. By moving from China to the UK, he transformed his personal journey of coming out into a public mission to represent Asian youth and the LGBTQ+ community.
Carlos Gu, born in Taiyuan, China, in 1993, established himself as a premier talent before reaching international fame. A Chinese National Champion, Gu competed globally alongside his partner Susan Sun. His transition to the British stage began in July 2022 when he joined the 20th series of Strictly Come Dancing. His trajectory on the show was marked by significant milestones: reaching the final as runner-up with Molly Rainford in his debut series, and eventually winning his first series in the 23rd season while partnered with former footballer Karen Carney.
This victory made him the first Chinese professional dancer to win the competition. Beyond the technical mastery of dance, Gu’s narrative is defined by his advocacy and personal courage. In July 2024, he spoke publicly about his identity as a gay man, revealing that the lack of public discussion regarding homosexuality in China was a primary reason for his move to the United Kingdom.
He highlighted a nuanced reality: while he encountered a culture of homophobia within the Chinese dance world, he was able to find strength in his own teacher, a gay nine-time world champion, who served as a vital role model during his youth. Gu’s work now bridges the gap between performance and personal expression. In 2025, he shared his first artwork, a meditative piece titled Reborn, which he created after years of being forced to prioritize dance over his passion for painting. By coming out publicly, Gu aims to serve as a visible role model for Asian children and others still navigating their identities. His journey illustrates how high-level artistry can serve as a vehicle for social visibility and the dismantling of cultural stereotypes.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Carlos Gu
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