BBC Strictly Star Reveals the Emotional Struggle That Almost Led to Quitting the Show Upon Learning of Celebrity Partner

 

Johannes Radebe, a celebrated professional on Strictly Come Dancing, formed a remarkable bond with his dance partner Annabel Croft in the previous season. However, he has recently revealed that upon learning he would be partnered with the ex-tennis ace, he nearly requested not to be paired with anyone at all.

During the most recent instalment of the show, a mourning Annabel Croft was teamed up with the South African star, Radebe, a decision that initially did not sit well with him.

The 36-year-old professional dancer shared that he was dealing with the loss of a close family member just as the series was about to commence, making him apprehensive about being matched with 57-year-old Croft, who was navigating through her own profound sorrow at the time.

The loss of Croft’s husband, Mel Coleman, occurred just a few months prior to her participation in the beloved dance competition. Throughout her journey on the show, she openly discussed her process of grieving.

Radebe elaborated on his initial reaction to the pairing, saying, “When they announced I was to dance with her, I questioned their motives. This was particularly because, just two weeks before we started, I had to lay my cousin to rest after he took his own life.”

While speaking on the Table Manners podcast, he further noted, “I felt numb. The excitement that usually accompanies such moments was absent. I had just returned from a highly successful tour, expecting to embark on what should have been an exhilarating phase.”

After the funeral, I had no choice but to return to South Africa. Ideally, I would have extended my stay abroad, but following the burial, I was compelled to fly back to the UK to record my audiobook.

That was a challenging period, and by the time Strictly commenced, I felt as though I was merely going through the motions.

Hence, when the announcement of the dance partners was made, my reaction was somewhat muted. I simply acknowledged the decision. At that moment, all I desired was to confront and process my emotions, something we seldom give ourselves the chance to do properly.

And indeed, they believed I was the right choice to team up with this particular lady.

I remember thinking they were being overly optimistic. I even discussed with my agent the possibility of not having a dance partner that year, given my need for a break.

Yet, as fate would have it, my dance partner and I developed a deep bond, allowing me to open up about my loss.

Many have commented, ‘Oh Johannes, you were there for Annabel,’ but in truth, it was Annabel who supported me.

Our partnership flourished, culminating in us securing fourth place. We were especially commended for our Couple’s Choice dance, a performance we dedicated to my late husband.

The emotional tribute moved many of the couple’s judges, co-stars, and viewers to tears. As the sportswoman concluded the routine by blowing a kiss towards the sky, it left a poignant impact.

After the heartfelt dance, head judge Shirley Ballas was visibly emotional. She held onto tissues and remarked, “I don’t usually get very emotional. But I’m sure Annabel’s children, Amber, Lily, and Charlie, are watching that, either at home or here.”

“The stars were in the sky, and you were sitting on your favourite bench, dancing with the most beautiful human,” Ballas added, reflecting on the performance’s sentiment.