When Lewis Cope, born 19 March 1995 in Hartlepool, delivered a scorching Paso Doble London for BBC's Strictly Come Dancing 2025 (Series 23), the dance floor lit up like a movie set. Paired with professional partner Katya Jones, the duo earned 37 out of a possible 40 points – the highest mark of the week and just three shy of perfection. The score vaulted Cope to the top of the cumulative leaderboard after four weeks of live shows, sparking buzz across social media and the nation.
From West End Debut to TV Soap Star
Cope’s journey began far from the glitter of the BBC studios. At age 11, he slipped onto the stage of Billy Elliot: The Musical in London, playing Michael – a role that introduced him to professional choreography and the rigors of nightly performances. The early exposure forged a work ethic that later paid off on screen.
After finishing his studies at English Martyrs School and Sixth Form College in Hartlepool, Cope transitioned to television. Credits include CBBC’s Hetty Feather, the daytime soap Doctors, and ITV’s crime drama Vera. Yet it was his two‑year stint as Nicky Milligan on Emmerdale (2022‑2024) that cemented his household name status. The role earned him a Rising Star nomination at the 2022 National Television Awards, a fork‑lifted boost to his profile.
The Dance‑TV Crossover: Got to Dance to Strictly
Before strict competition, Cope tasted reality‑show pressure on Sky One’s Got to Dance (Series 3, 2013), where he finished as runner‑up. That experience taught him how to translate personal storytelling into movement – a skill he now wields on the Strictly ballroom. His return to the spotlight via BBC feels like a full‑circle moment, melding his acting chops with his dance foundation.
Movie Week: ‘The Plaza of Execution’ Paso Doble
Week 4’s Movie Theme asked contestants to channel iconic film scores. Cope chose the dramatic “The Plaza of Execution” from The Mask of Zorro, a piece pulsing with tension and swagger. With Katya’s precise lifts and his own fiery footwork, the routine felt less like a competition and more like a staged duel. Judges Mercier, Hogg, and McEwan each handed a perfect 10‑point score, while host Tess Daly awarded a generous 7, nudging the total to 37.
“He owned the stage,” one judge told the audience, noting how Cope’s facial expression mirrored the character’s resolve. The performance not only earned the highest weekly score but also placed Cope “comfortably at the top of the leaderboard,” according to the Radio Times.
Fans, Followers, and Instagram Buzz
Cope’s Instagram handle @lewiscope saw a 42 % spike in activity after the broadcast. Comments ranged from “Pure movie magic” to “Can’t wait for the next week.” Even fellow Strictly alumnus Kevin Clifton weighed in, praising the “cinematic storytelling” of the Paso Doble. The social surge mirrors a broader trend: reality‑TV participants leveraging their platforms to keep the conversation alive between weekly shows.
What Comes Next? The Road to the Final
With the semi‑finals slated for early December, Cope now faces a packed schedule of themed nights – from “Broadway Classics” to “Seasonal Spectacular.” His early dominance suggests a strong chance at the coveted glitterball trophy, but the competition remains fierce. Katya’s return to the professional roster adds veteran insight; together they’ll need to balance technical precision with entertainment value to stay ahead.
Strictly’s History of Actor‑Contestants
Cope joins a lineage that includes Rupert Penry‑Jones (2016) and Gareth Gates (2017), each leveraging acting backgrounds to bring narrative depth to their dances. Historically, actors who excel on Strictly often see a post‑show surge in TV roles, a pattern that could see Cope back on screen with even bigger parts after the finale.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Lewis Cope’s score affect his chances of winning Strictly?
A 37‑point week places Cope at the top of the cumulative leaderboard, giving him a buffer over rivals. While scores fluctuate each week, maintaining high marks in themed rounds is crucial for reaching the semi‑finals and ultimately the final.
What makes Katya Jones a valuable partner for Cope?
Katya returned to Strictly in 2025 after a brief hiatus, bringing years of choreography experience. Her ability to craft lifts that highlight Cope’s acting flair and his own dance foundation creates routines that score well on both technique and entertainment.
Why is the Movie Week performance considered a turning point?
The routine combined cinematic music with a narrative style that resonated with judges and viewers. Its 37‑point total was the week’s highest, signalling that Cope could translate his acting instincts into compelling dance storytelling.
What impact does Cope’s Instagram presence have on the show?
The spike in followers and engagement amplifies audience investment, turning votes and social chatter into measurable support. A strong online footprint often correlates with higher public voting percentages during elimination rounds.
What are the next themed weeks Cope will face?
BBC has announced upcoming themes such as “Broadway Classics,” “Seasonal Spectacular,” and “Iconic Duets.” Each will test Cope’s versatility, requiring both technical precision and the ability to convey distinct storylines.