Johannes Radebe reveals how he became a royal admirer after opening up to his mum about his sexuality.

Johannes Radebe: From Township to Strictly Stardom

We often speak casually about life journeys, a trope that’s become a reality TV cliché, but the journey taken by Strictly professional dancer Johannes Radebe, both figurative and literal, is nothing short of extraordinary. Growing up as a gay child in a poverty-stricken South African township, Johannes’s early fascination with heels and feathers set him apart. Despite the odds stacked against him, he began dance classes at the age of seven, in a concrete-floored recreation center in the macho mining community where he was raised. His path to success was far from straightforward, but in 2018, he joined the professional dancers on Strictly Come Dancing. Now, with the latest series of the show launching, Johannes has released his memoir, “Jojo: Finally Home.”

A Difficult Beginning in South Africa

Johannes Radebe’s childhood was marked by hardship. Raised in a South African township, he faced bullying at school for not conforming to traditional gender norms. However, the strong, loving presence of his mother, grandmother, aunt, and sister provided a counterbalance to the bullying. His father, an alcoholic, passed away when Johannes was just 14. This difficult childhood laid the foundation for the remarkable journey he would embark on later in life.

The Journey to Strictly Come Dancing

Johannes’s journey to Strictly Come Dancing was far from straightforward. He faced financial obstacles that prevented him from pursuing a university education. Dance became his sole focus, but poverty and the need to provide for his family limited his earnings as a dance teacher in Johannesburg. Despite these challenges, he found a breakthrough when he secured a cruise-ship dancing gig, which allowed him to travel the world.

A Dream Realized: Joining Strictly

In May 2018, Johannes achieved a lifelong dream when he became a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing. He joined a cast of talented dancers and quickly found camaraderie among his colleagues. Meeting fellow South African dancer Oti Mabuse provided him with a sense of home away from home.

Breaking Barriers on Strictly

Johannes made history on Strictly when he was part of the show’s first male same-sex pairing with Bake-Off winner John Whaite in 2021. Their on-screen chemistry made a powerful statement about inclusivity and received overwhelming support from viewers. Despite facing online trolls and negativity, Johannes and John’s journey on the show was ultimately a triumph.

A Royal Seal of Approval

Johannes’s journey took an unexpected turn when he found himself embraced by the British Royal Family. As an ambassador for the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, he was invited to Buckingham Palace to give a speech by King Charles. Johannes was overwhelmed by the experience and the warmth of the Royal Family. His journey from a South African township to royal recognition is a testament to his resilience and talent.

Conclusion: Jojo’s Extraordinary Journey

Johannes Radebe’s life journey, from a challenging upbringing in South Africa to becoming a beloved figure on Strictly Come Dancing and receiving recognition from the Royal Family, is nothing short of extraordinary. His story serves as an inspiration for overcoming adversity, pursuing one’s dreams, and breaking down barriers in the world of dance and entertainment.

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