‘I’m not lost, I’m from a community’: Johannes Radebe takes ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ forward

When Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC BRIT (DStv Channel 120) on September 27 at 7pm, South African audiences will witness one of their own joining the spotlight in an unprecedented way. Johannes "JoJo" Radebe, a professional dancer who spent eight years dazzling the ballroom, is now part of the show's first-ever three-person presenting team, alongside Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe, as the 24th season commences.

This marks a significant full-circle moment for Radebe, who shared his journey from the streets of Zamdela, a township in the Free State, to his current role, describing himself as "so at ease." JoJo's success is deeply rooted in the community he hails from, where social dancing and partner-dancing gatherings have long existed. Growing up, JoJo credited his late aunt for introducing him to the world of dance, and he firmly rejected the notion that the township tradition was insignificant.

Leaving home at the age of 14 to pursue his dreams in Johannesburg, JoJo faced numerous challenges and sacrifices, including the doubts of his own parents. The journey from Zamdela to the Strictly ballroom was marked by uncertainty and hard work, but JoJo's determination led him to make history in 2026, becoming a British citizen and making his West End debut in Kinky Boots on the London Coliseum stage.

Despite the pressure, JoJo remains grounded, crediting his mother and friends for keeping him true to himself. He emphasized that his success is driven by his desire to serve his community back home. As he steps into this significant role on a long-standing British institution, JoJo aims to bring the same authenticity he brings to dance, promising viewers nothing but the familiar cake with fresh icing – nothing will change.