Strictly Come Dancing star Johannes Radebe(Image: ITV)
Johannes Radebe has been flooded with messages of love and support as the Strictly Come Dancing star shared an emotional update on his life in the UK.
The professional dancer, who hails from South Africa, is a firm favourite among fans having joined the show in 2018. He made history three years later with baker John Whaite when the pair became the first all-male partnership to compete in the BBC One dance contest and they made it all the way to the final.
Johannes, who returned to Strictly for his ninth series last year, has also seen his career blossom away from the famous ballroom. He is currently preparing for his West End debut as he is set to reprise the role of drag queen Lola in hit musical, Kinky Boots, for a limited time only.
It was announced last year that the spectacular show, which featured a score by Girls Just Wanna Have Fun icon Cyndi Lauper, will strut its way into the London Coliseum from March 17 to July 11, 2026, with a week of previews at Curve, in Leicester, from next Tuesday, March 3.
However, amid preparing to reprise the role of Lola, Johannes was seen attending a very important ceremony as he confirmed he had officially become a British citizen.
Alongside a video of the moment his citizenship became official, the star wrote on Instagram: “I left South Africa with a heart full of hope and a dream too big to say out loud. I didn’t know how the story would unfold, only that I was brave enough to begin it.
“Britain welcomed me. It challenged me. It shaped me. Through @bbcstrictly, I found not just a stage, but a voice and the chance to grow in front of millions. Today, I stand as a citizen of the United Kingdom. And I did not stand there alone.
Johannes (centre) on Strictly Come Dancing(Image: PA)
“I was surrounded by the family I chose…people who love me, who supported me, and who gave their time and belief so I could simply get on with it. None of this was achieved alone.”
He continued: “My roots will always be South African – my foundation, my fire, my first rhythm. But Britain has become my belonging, the place where my artistry flourished and where my future now stands. At my citizenship ceremony, I pledged to respect the rights and freedoms of the United Kingdom and to uphold its democratic values. Those words mean something to me.This is not just citizenship. It is gratitude. It is growth. It is shared sacrifice. It is proof that courage, when paired with opportunity and held up by love, can change the course of a life. I carry where I come from with pride. I embrace where I stand with humility. And I step forward — not just as a dancer, not just as a performer but as someone who dared to begin, and was welcomed enough to become. THANK YOU.”
Former Strictly winner Stacey Dooley was quick to respond, as she said; “Lucky us,” while JLS star and 2024 contestant JB Gill replied: “Love this JoJo. Congratulations.” Fellow Strictly pro Neil Jones, meanwhile, shared: “[heart emoji] knighthood next.” It Takes Two host
Janette Manrara, who recently told she had passed her citizenship test, commented: “Amazing news my beautiful friend!!” Reigning Strcitly champ Carlos Gu wrote: “Congratulations Sista!!!! You are a bri-a-sh now!” Kai Widdrington posted: “Come through [heart emoji].”
Fans were also keen to show their love and support. @jojo.radebe.fan said: “How lucky we are to have you, congratulations.” @emmelly429 posted: “Our country just got a whole lot richer. Thank you for choosing us to be your home and that outfit [love heart eyes and flame emojis].”
@mandyjsykes shared: “Massive congratulations, what beautiful words to sum up a beautiful day and a gorgeous beginning for your 2026! Thankyou for choosing here for your home, we adore you. So proud of you.” @adrienne2307 added: “I am crying. No-one deserves it more @johannesradebe !!! Congrats, how lucky we are to officially have you! And your words are so beautiful and elegant. Just like you.”