The top 5 best and worst Strictly pros of all time – the No.1s may surprise you
OPINION: Strictly Come Dancing has been on our screens for over 20 years.
Over the years there have been dozens of professional dancers on the BBC show
(Image: BBC Pictures)As the 2025 Strictly Come Dancing final draws closer, another pro dancer will make history as they lift the Glitterball Trophy alongside their celebrity partner. The BBC dance competition has been on our screens for over 20 years, and dozens of pros have come and gone. Some have become legends on the dance floor and gone on to become judges, while others have stepped away from the limelight.
Here at Express Online, we have ranked some of the best and perhaps not-so-memorable professional dancers from over the years. Starting off with some of the best professionals, such as Oti Mabuse, these stars have consistently brought class and excitement to their routines and have been great teachers, even for those with no dance experience.
Regarding the worst of all time, this has been chosen based on success, personality, and how memorable their routines were during their tenures on the show.
5. Dianne Buswell
First joining in 2017, Dianne has always been a fan favourite and taken three non-dancers to the final. Last year, she was finally rewarded when she won the show alongside Chris McCausland. Funny, kind, and a great ambassador for the show, Dianne is a legend and has even won a BAFTA!
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3. Nikita Kuzmin
Despite only being a pro on the show for a few years, Nikita has been a standout each year. Regardless of who he partners with, he excels in his choreography. His partnership with Layton Williams was one of the best pairings I'd ever seen. He has also made it to the final again this weekend with Amber Davies! Nikita will certainly win the show one year.
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4. Johannes Radebe
Often nicknamed Jojo, he first joined in 2018 and has had some incredible career highlights on Strictly. His partnership with John Whaite was historic and was a worthy finalist. He is also a true gentleman and a class act. He always looks after his partners, and I long for him to win the show one year.
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2. Aliona Vilani
I have three words: Jay. McGuinness. Jive. Aliona is one of the early greats to have graced the Strictly dancefloor. A blast from the past, but she was so fun to watch. She was on the show for seven years, won the show twice, and her choreography consistently impressed me.
(Image: Getty)