Strictly Come Dancing star 'removes dance experience from CV' ahead of 2026 show

Has sparked whispers among Strictly Come Dancing fans, Lawrence Robb, a 34-year-old Emmerdale actor, has removed his dance experience from his profile on the United Agents talent website. The decision comes as Robb prepares to take part in the 2026 series of the BBC show, where contestants are often scrutinized for their dance backgrounds.

Lawrence Robb is a former pupil at The Dance School of Scotland, where he studied jazz, ballet, modern, contemporary, and pas de deux. The school's emphasis on dance training has shaped Robb's career, and he has spoken fondly of his time there. In an interview, he revealed: 'I studied at Knightswood, incorporating the Dance School of Scotland along with the musical theatre course back in 2007 and left in 2009.' This two-year stint at the school has clearly had a lasting impact on Robb's artistic development.

The 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing has undergone a significant revamp, with a new set of contestants and judges. However, the debate around dance experience among celebrities has persisted, with past contestants like Amber Davies facing criticism for their musical theatre backgrounds. Davies, a West End performer and former Love Islander, was accused of copying a dance routine from The Great Gatsby musical during her 2025 run. The controversy surrounding her dance experience ultimately cost her the top spot in the final, where she was pipped by Lioness Karen Carney.

The pressure to conform to traditional dance standards has long been a contentious issue Strictly Come Dancing. Fans and contestants alike have grappled with the idea of what constitutes 'legitimate' dance experience. For some, a background in musical theatre is seen as a liability, while for others, it's a valuable asset. As the show continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the debate around dance experience plays out.

The 2026 series of Strictly Come Dancing promises to be a fresh start for the show, with a new set of contestants and judges. However, the controversy surrounding dance experience will undoubtedly continue to simmer in the background. As a writer, I believe that the show's emphasis on inclusivity and diversity is a step in the right direction. By embracing a broader definition of dance experience, Strictly Come Dancing can continue to evolve and thrive.

As I reflect on the controversy surrounding Lawrence Robb's dance experience, I am reminded of the complexities of the Strictly Come Dancing universe. With its emphasis on entertainment, performance, and competition, the show is inherently prone to controversy. Yet, it is precisely this tension that makes Strictly Come Dancing so compelling. As the 2026 series gets underway, one thing is clear: the debate around dance experience will continue to be a major talking point.