Strictly Come Dancing Welcomes First Drag Performer, La Voix

Strictly Come Dancing has made a historic move by signing its first drag performer, La Voix, to compete in the upcoming series of the popular BBC One dance show. The entertainer, who is known off stage as Chris Dennis, is a seasoned performer from Stockton-on-Tees, England. The announcement was made by the BBC on October 3, 2023, making La Voix a notable addition to the show’s lineup.

La Voix, at approximately 5 feet 7 inches in height, is expected to partner with a tall male professional dancer during the competition. In dance shoes, La Voix will stand nearly 6 feet tall, which necessitates a suitable partner to match that height. The performer is not entirely new to television audiences, having previously appeared on both Britain’s Got Talent and RuPaul’s Drag Race, showcasing a vibrant and entertaining style.

Breaking New Ground for Drag Representation

An insider from the show shared insights about the decision to include La Voix. They noted that producers had experimented with the idea of featuring a drag artist earlier, with Tayce winning the Christmas Special last year alongside professional dancer Kai Widdrington. The source described La Voix as a more traditional entertainer, appealing to the classic Strictly audience while also pushing the boundaries of what the show represents.

This marks a significant milestone for Strictly Come Dancing, as La Voix is the first drag artist to participate in the main series. Other international versions of the show have previously included drag performers; for example, Shangela, whose real name is DJ Pierce, was part of the American edition in 2022, while Courtney Act participated in the Australian version in 2019.

The inclusion of La Voix aligns with the show’s ongoing efforts to diversify its cast and reflect broader societal changes. This decision may also attract new viewers and engage existing fans in exciting ways.

Additional Cast Confirmations

In conjunction with La Voix’s announcement, the BBC confirmed that Balvinder Sopal, known for her role in EastEnders, will also join the cast for this year’s season. The inclusion of actors from the long-running soap has become a tradition for the show, with many previous contestants having come from the same background.

As the series prepares for its debut, anticipation builds for how La Voix will integrate into the competitive atmosphere of Strictly Come Dancing. With a mix of talent and flair, La Voix promises to be a captivating addition to the line-up, paving the way for more inclusive representation in mainstream television.