Strictly Come Dancing professionals have been mesmerising viewers with their captivating footwork ever since the programme hit screens in 2004.
Training their celebrity partners to perfection, the professionals have often bought awe-inspiring dance moves to the stage.
This year’s series saw new faces added to the Strictly professional line-up and whether they have a partner or not, the stars have added a touch of glamour and pizzazz to the show.
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Although the BBC has never confirmed each professional dancer’s salary, it has been heavily reported that each dancer is paid a flat fee of between £35,000 to £50,000 to appear on the show.
But in addition to this, each dancer receives several opportunities to top this up, on the Strictly Come Dancing: The Professionals tour as well as in stage shows, musicals and theatre productions.
So as this year’s competition continues to heat up, Daily Star has taken a look at the new Strictly professionals.
Michelle Tsiakkas
(Image: PA)
Strictly pro Michelle Tsiakkas discovered her love for dance at the age of six and went on to become a renowned champion.
Born in Cyprus, Michelle became an undefeated champion, winning national titles consecutively from 2001-2011 before she relocated to London to study.
Before she joined the world touring dance show Burn The Floor, Michelle represented the UK at major international tournaments.
Announcing the news that she would be joining this year’s BBC show, the dancer took to her social media platform and said: “Being a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing has been my dream ever since I was a little girl. I cannot believe my dream has come true.
“I’m so grateful to be joining this incredible family and I can’t wait to step on that magical dance floor and give it my all!”
Lauren Oakley
At the age of two, Birmingham-born Lauren Oakley started dancing and began competing not long after.
Lauren’s early successes include becoming Juvenile Champion at the prestigious Blackpool Dance Festival, earning her winning titles across both Ballroom and Latin disciplines.
Not only this but she was also crowned the Under 21 British National Champion before exploring a career on stage.
Before appearing on Strictly she has toured all over the world and most recently has been leading lady to Giovanni Pernice and Anton Du Beke in their national tours.
Sharing her thoughts on joining the this year’s series, the dancer said: “I’ve grown up watching Strictly, always hoping that one day I could be part of the best show on television, doing what I love the most.
“Now that it’s happening, it doesn’t seem real. I can’t wait to start this new sequinned adventure and join this incredible family.”
Carlos Gu
(Image: PA)
Of course, two of this year’s new pros do have celebrity partners – including Carlos Gu.
Chinese National Champion Carlos has won viewers’ hearts over with his impressive dance skills and likeable personality on screen alongside Molly Rainford.
Before Carlos joined Strictly and was partnered with Molly Rainford he became a multiple world semi-finalist, placed 3rd at the German Open Championship.
In addition to this, he also became the Amateur Latin Rising Star Runner Up at the 2017 UK Open.
Carlos has further experience in ballroom, ballet and contemporary dance and brings a wealth of knowledge to the ballroom.
Vito Coppola
(Image: PA)
Professional dancer Vito Coppola has captivated viewers with his dance technique while on the BBC show.
Partnered with singer Fleur East the 11-time Italian Latin American Champion began dancing at the age of six and by the age of ten he was winning national championships.
Some of his career highlights include being a three-time World Championship finalist and European Cup Winner.
Last year Vito decided to leave the competition world as one of its highest ranking athletes.
Vito most recently competed in and won Ballando con le Stelle which is the the Italian version of Strictly Come Dancing.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
