Lewis Cope captured the hearts of Strictly Come Dancing fans in 2025. The former Emmerdale star partnered with professional dancer Katya Jones. Despite being tipped to reach the final, they left in the quarter-finals. In 2026, searches for “Lewis Strictly Come Dancing” remain high. Fans want updates on the live tour, his dance background and his future projects.
The 30-year-old actor has since continued his dancing journey on the live arena tour. He is also about to host a special workshop. Therefore, this guide covers everything about Lewis Cope’s Strictly experience and what comes next.
Who Is Lewis Cope? Emmerdale and Acting Career
Lewis Cope is a British actor born in 1995 or 1996. He is best known for playing Nicky Milligan on the ITV soap Emmerdale . He joined the soap in 2022 and left in 2024. His character was the son of Caleb Milligan.
Before acting, Lewis trained solely as an actor. Despite some rumours, he did not train as a professional dancer. “I’m not a professional dancer,” he told Birmingham Live. “I didn’t train as a dancer. I trained just solely as an actor” .
He did one musical when he was 11 years old. He also did some hip hop in his teens. However, ballroom dancing was completely new to him.
Strictly 2025: Partnership with Katya Jones
Lewis was paired with professional dancer Katya Jones for the 2025 series. The duo became fan favourites quickly. Their chemistry and charisma shone through each week. They achieved some of the highest male celebrity scores of the series .
Lewis and Katya trained incredibly hard for every routine. “We trained so much, I fell asleep on the dance floor because we would not give up,” Lewis admitted . Katya agreed that far from being a natural, Lewis put in tremendous effort every day.
He addressed the “professional dancer” allegations head-on. “What you saw on the screen wasn’t natural. We worked so hard for days and days to put a routine together,” he explained .
Quarter-Final Elimination: A Shock Exit
Lewis and Katya’s elimination in the quarter-finals shocked fans. Many had tipped them to lift the Glitterball Trophy. They left the competition after a dance-off against eventual finalists Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin .
Fans were heartbroken by the result. However, Lewis took the experience positively. “I swapped the Dales for the dance floor to take part in Strictly, and I’m not ready to hang up my dancing shoes just yet,” he said .
Strictly Come Dancing Live 2026 Tour
Lewis joined the 2026 Strictly Live Tour after his competition exit[citation:6]. The tour runs for 30 shows across the UK from 23 January to 15 February 2026[citation:6][citation:4]. He performs with Katya Jones on the arena stage.
The pair dance the Charleston and their Couple’s Choice routine[citation:10]. Tour host Janette Manrara presents the shows[citation:4][citation:6]. Judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke and Craig Revel Horwood appear on stage[citation:6].
Due to previous filming commitments, Lewis misses eight performances[citation:5][citation:9]. George Clarke also misses 11 shows for similar reasons. Special guest Layton Williams joins the tour as a performer[citation:1][citation:4].
Dance Workshop in Inverness April 2026
Lewis and Katya are hosting a special dance workshop in Inverness. The event takes place at Drumossie Hotel on 17 April 2026[citation:7]. It runs from 12pm until 2pm[citation:7].
The workshop raises funds for Strictly Inverness 2026. The charity supports Inverness Ice Centre and Highland Hospice[citation:7]. Participants will also get a photo opportunity with the Strictly pair.
Organiser Karen McBey said: “It’s a great chance for people to enjoy learning from the stars and finish the Easter holidays in style” [citation:7].
What’s Next for Lewis? Acting and Future Projects
Lewis has confirmed plans to return to acting after the tour. Work offers have come “flooding in” since his Strictly appearance[citation:5]. He is among the cast for an adaptation of Graham Norton’s thriller novel “Forever Home” for Channel 5[citation:5].
He stars alongside Denise Welch, Jenny Walser and Samantha Bond[citation:5]. His next film “Kazzy” is also in pre-production[citation:6].
Katya has teased that “something could be on the cards” for her and Lewis. She posted on Instagram: “There’s another little something brewing up from us” [citation:3]. Lewis reshared the post with eyes emojis.
Lewis Cope’s Girlfriend: Rachel Lopez
Away from the dance floor, Lewis has a girlfriend named Rachel Lopez. He shares videos on social media of them taking on viral dance trends[citation:3]. Fans have demanded he “keep dancing” after watching their routines.
One fan commented: “I am LIVING for this! My fave pair of dancers” [citation:3]. Another wrote: “Please do more” [citation:3].
Why Lewis Cope Is Trending in 2026
Lewis Cope continues to trend for several reasons. The Strictly Live Tour keeps him in the public eye. His upcoming dance workshop in Inverness has generated excitement. Fans remain curious about his next acting role. Additionally, his close friendship with Katya Jones sparks ongoing interest.
His journey from Emmerdale to the Strictly ballroom has won him new fans. Consequently, searches for “Lewis Strictly Come Dancing” remain consistently high in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Lewis Cope?
A British actor, best known for playing Nicky Milligan on Emmerdale. He competed on Strictly Come Dancing in 2025.
How old is Lewis Cope?
Born in 1995 or 1996. He is approximately 30 years old as of 2026.
Who was Lewis Cope’s partner on Strictly?
He was partnered with professional dancer Katya Jones.
Is Lewis Cope a professional dancer?
No. He trained solely as an actor. He addressed the “professional dancer” allegations directly.
Is Lewis Cope on the Strictly Live Tour 2026?
Yes. He performs with Katya Jones at 30 shows across the UK.
Does Lewis Cope have a girlfriend?
Yes. He is dating Rachel Lopez. They share viral dance videos on social media.
What TV show is Lewis Cope filming next?
He will appear in Graham Norton’s “Forever Home” for Channel 5.
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