Strictly's Johannes Radebe to reunite with Annabel Croft for 'one night only'

07 March 2024 , 08:57

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Annabel and Johannes will reunite soon (Image: Karwai Tang/WireImage)

Strictly Come Dancing's Johannes Radebe has revealed he will be reuniting with his celebrity dance partner Annabel Croft.

They were partnered together on the BBC One show Strictly Come Dancing in 2023 and won over viewers with their connection. The professional dancer, 36, and former professional tennis player, 57, placed fourth in the dance contest, having made it all the way to the semi-final of the series.

Annabel had an emotional time on the show, paying tribute to her husband Mel Coleman, who died last year aged 60. The dance partners were unable to reunite with each other after this year's BBC ballroom show finished as Annabel embarked on the Strictly Come Dancing Live tour where she danced with Graziano Di Prima instead.

However, Johannes has since revealed they will be heading back to the dancefloor together very soon. He shared that Annabel would be joining him at one of his upcoming shows on his House of JoJo tour. "I did say we'll continue dancing...I'm feeling grateful..." he said. "For one night only (and the matinee) the wonderful @annabel_croft will be joining my show at The London Palladium on the 4th May for a very special performance. Another chance to dance with my darling friend at a theatre I have been dreaming of performing at since I started touring. Buzzing."

Johannes and Annabel will have one more dance together (BBC/Guy Levy)

They won over viewers with their sweet friendship on the show (BBC/Guy Levy)

Annabel added: "I can't wait to be back in your arms - I'm already a bit stiff but will get practicing." Johannes paid tribute to Annabel following their experience on Strictly last year. He wrote on Instagram after the semi-final: "You always have my heart and a big thank you to your wonderful children because we couldn't have done this without their support. I end this season with the most wonderful memories to cherish and friends for life."

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He added: "I'd like to say a huge thank you to [Strictly] for sending Annabel my way and also to everyone involved in the making of this show. This experience wouldn't be what it is without you and I am grateful to be a part of this." Annabel reflected on their friendship as she also said: "You have become more than just a dancer partner. You are a best friend, soul mate and rock. You really are a ray of sunshine. Thank you for everything."

Following their final dance on the BBC show, Johannes told host Claudia Winkleman: "Now when I tell you, this has been a year for Annabel and we all know that. Not only for her but for her family as well. What I applaud is that after all of that, she came here to learn how to dance."

He looked into Annabel's eyes as he began to choke up: "I can't tell you how proud I am of you. It is not about the Glitterball, it is about what you have given me. So, Annabel Croft, you have won my heart. Thank you." Annabel and Johannes shared a sweet embrace as the fellow professional dancers stood listening wiping away tears.

Mia O'Hare