Who Is The Best Professional Dancer On Strictly

Let’s be honest, Saturday nights in front of the telly just aren’t the same without Strictly Come Dancing. We all have our favourite, don’t we? The one we secretly think is the best professional dancer on the whole show.

The glitz, the glamour, and the water-cooler chat

Think about it. You’re at work on Monday morning, and someone brings up the weekend’s paso doble. Suddenly, everyone has an opinion on who really nailed it. It’s like discussing who makes the best cup of tea at your local café—everyone has their own taste, but we all agree it’s important.

This isn’t just about dancing. It’s about who makes us feel something when they glide across that floor. The best professional dancer is the one who turns your living room into a mini ballroom.

The incredible G.O.A.T. debate

You’ll hear people arguing for Giovanni Pernice and his sharp, fiery technique. He’s like that friend who can make even a boring spreadsheet look exciting with his sheer energy. Then there’s Johannes Radebe, who dances with a joy so infectious it makes you want to get up and shimmy while you’re still in your pyjamas.

Don’t forget the ladies. Oti Mabuse was electric—the kind of dancer who could teach your grandma to salsa and have her winning a trophy. And Dianne Buswell? She’s the girl next door who turns into a firecracker on the dance floor, proving you don’t need to be born in a tutu to move like a pro.

Why your opinion matters more than you think

Here’s the funny thing: the “best” dancer changes every season. It’s not about who won the most glitterballs. It’s about who made you hold your breath during a Charleston, or who helped a nervous celebrity find their confidence. Remember when Kevin Clifton lifted Stacey Dooley like she was a feather? That was pure magic.

You care because these dancers are everyday superheroes. They show up, work hard, and make mistakes look like part of the choreography. It’s the same reason you root for the underdog at your local bake-off or the new starter at the office who surprises everyone.

A little story from your own life

Imagine you’re at a wedding. The music starts, and your auntie drags you onto the dance floor. You stumble, you laugh, and then someone—maybe a friend or a stranger—takes your hand and leads you into a spin. Suddenly, you’re dancing. That stranger is your version of the best professional dancer.

On Strictly, that’s what the pros do every week. They take a nervous baker, a retired athlete, or a TV presenter and turn them into a dancer. It’s not about perfection. It’s about connection. And that’s why we fight about who is the best.

Let’s get practical: the daily dance-off

Think of your morning routine. You’re brushing your teeth, checking your phone, and trying not to spill coffee. That’s a bit like a rumba—all about balance and timing. The best pro dancer on Strictly is the one who makes that chaotic routine look smooth and fun.

For me, it’s often Katya Jones. She can take a complete beginner and make them look like they’ve been dancing since birth. It’s like having a friend who can fix your Wi-Fi with a single button push—impressive and deeply comforting.

But ask my neighbour, and she’ll swear by Anton Du Beke. His old-school charm and cheeky smile make her feel like she’s back in the 1950s, when ballroom was king. He’s the comfortable armchair of dancers—reliable, warm, and always there for a good chat.

The real winner is you

Here’s the secret nobody tells you: the best professional dancer on Strictly is the one you love watching. Full stop. It doesn’t matter if your choice has won ten glitterballs or zero. What matters is the feeling you get when they dance.

So next time you’re curled up on the sofa, argue with your family. Cheer for your favourite. But remember, it’s a celebration of joy, not a competition. And if you find yourself practicing a paso doble in the kitchen while waiting for the kettle to boil, you’ve already found the best dancer—in your heart.

Now, go put on some tango music and have a little spin. You’ve earned it.