Lewis Cope Criticizes Being Labeled Professionally Trained as Disrespectful to Strictly Pros
Lewis Cope, a former Emmerdale actor, is currently causing a stir on Strictly Come Dancing. Despite performing well, he faces skepticism regarding his dance experience. Cope, 30, emphasizes that he is not a professional dancer, responding to claims that he has too much experience for the show. He initially entered the competition as a backup after Kristian Nairn withdrew due to injury.
Lewis Cope’s Dance Background
Although Cope showcased his talent in the West End and participated in the reality series Got To Dance, he insists that his dance training is minimal. His only formal instruction occurred at age 11 for the musical Billy Elliot. Since then, he has focused solely on acting.
Misconceptions About Professional Training
Addressing the misconceptions about his dance skills, Cope stated, “To label me as professionally trained feels absurd.” He believes it undermines the expertise of professional dancers on the show who have dedicated their lives to mastering their craft. This sentiment reflects his respect for the rigorous training of his fellow contestants.
Strictly Come Dancing Competition Landscape
The current season of Strictly has seen various strong contenders. Bookmakers consider Cope, YouTube star George Clarke, reality TV star Vicky Pattison, and former Lioness Karen Carney as potential winners. Recently, Alex Kingston made history as the oldest contestant to lead the leaderboard with a remarkable samba performance.
Performance Highlights
- Cope executed an impressive split in his first performance.
- He received criticism from head judge Shirley Ballas for a Viennese Waltz, earning a score of 27 out of 40.
- His dance partner, Katya Jones, advocates for more recognition of his talent levels.
Personal Journey and Inspiration
Originating from Hartlepool, Cope grew up in a large family, which fostered his storytelling skills. His early experiences shaped his aspirations in acting. At a young age, he was inspired to pursue a career in performance after being cast in Billy Elliot. This pivotal moment opened new possibilities for him.
Motivation and Future Goals
Cope’s journey has resonated with many, especially young individuals who see him as a beacon of inspiration. He recently received messages from fans, including a mother whose son is now interested in dance lessons after watching him perform. Looking ahead, Cope remains passionate about advocating for working-class individuals and aspires to return to acting in films and dramas following his stint on Strictly.
Strictly Come Dancing airs weekly on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. For the latest updates on your favorite shows, visit Emegypt.
