Emmerdale star Lewis Cope is one of the 15 celebrities taking part in Strictly Come Dancing 2025 – here’s everything you need to know about the actor

Emmerdale star Lewis Cope is one of the 15 celebrities taking part in Strictly Come Dancing 2025(Image: BBC)

Lewis Cope has joined the roster of 15 celebrity contestants competing in Strictly Come Dancing 2025.

The Emmerdale star was drafted into the line-up at the eleventh hour following Game of Thrones actor Kristian Nairn’s withdrawal from the competition due to “unexpected medical reasons”.

Discussing his participation in Strictly 2025, Lewis revealed: “It just happened totally last minute for me but I love that.

“The excitement for me has been helpful and I’ve maybe enjoyed it more, I think, as if I’d have known for [a longer time].”

Before the launch programme airs, here’s some additional background on the soap star, reports Chronicle Live.

How old is Lewis Cope?

The Emmerdale actor is 30 years old(Image: BBC)

Lewis is 30 years.

He hails from a massive family of 14 children and boasts 13 nieces and nephews.

Whilst his brothers Adam, Danny and Peter have claimed the Northern area championship as professional boxers, Lewis pursued an entirely different path.

He previously revealed to the Mirror: “I’m from a family of 14. Most of my brothers are boxers, but I chose to dance.”

Who did Lewis Cope play in Emmerdale?

Lewis played Nicky Milligan in Emmerdale for two years(Image: ITV)

The performer took on the role of Nicky Milligan in Emmerdale across a two-year stint spanning 2022 to 2024.

He made his entrance as male childminder Nicky three years back and swiftly became entangled in a major plot development.

Nicky developed a particular fascination with Gabby Thomas (Rosie Bentham) after landing the position caring for her son Thomas Tate, subsequently embarking on a clandestine romantic relationship with her. However, it was soon revealed that he’s the grandson of Frank Tate and was conspiring with his dad Caleb Milligan (Will Ash) to bring down Kim Tate (Claire King).

Lewis Cope’s past dance experience

Lewis has past dance experience(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images)

Lewis has been in the acting game for a while now, making his stage debut at the tender age of 11, playing Michael in the West End smash hit Billy Elliot: The Musical.

Lewis was also a member of the street dance group Ruff Diamond, who came second in Sky’s Got To Dance in 2013.

At the age of 18, Lewis attended drama school and subsequently landed roles in Doctors and Hetty Feather. He also portrayed Marcus Hynde in an episode of ITV’s Vera in 2021.

Is Lewis Cope single?

Lewis in a relationship with actress Rachelle Lopez(Image: Instagram)

Lewis is currently dating Rachelle Lopez, with their relationship spanning approximately eight years. The couple frequently share affectionate photos together on Instagram.

Rachelle is also involved in the acting industry and works as a professional Pilates instructor.

In a heartfelt post in December, Lewis wrote alongside a picture of them: “Six years of Dublin at Christmas with you. Wouldn’t have it any other way.”