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Strictly's Katya Jones Balances BBC Commitments with New International Judging Role Professional dancer Katya Jones is navigating one of her busiest professional periods, continuing her long-running role on the BBC's flagship show Strictly Come Dancing while simultaneously taking on a new appointment as a judge for the Belgian version of the popular format. Jones, 36, who joined the British series in 2016 and lifted the Glitterball Trophy in 2017, has been confirmed as part of the professional line-up for the current season of Strictly Come Dancing, where she is partnered with Emmerdale actor Lewis Cope. Her increased international visibility comes as she celebrates nearly a decade on the prime-time BBC show, sparking discussion among industry watchers regarding the long-term trajectory of her career within the highly competitive world of professional ballroom. A New Chapter Behind the Judging Panel The most significant development in Jones’s career trajectory is her move to the judging panel of Dancing with the Stars Belgium (local title: Sterren op de Dansvloer). The appointment, announced earlier this year, sees the World Latin Showdance Champion transition from performer to arbiter in a major European market. The move is often viewed as a natural progression for highly successful professional dancers, allowing them to leverage years of technical expertise and experience in the demanding reality television format. For Jones, the transition has been described as a "dream role," enabling her to bring her passion and knowledge to a new stage. “I know my body won’t let me dance at this level forever, so I’m already thinking about the future,” Jones stated in a recent interview, acknowledging the physical toll of competitive dancing and intensive professional tours. She added that the experience of judging felt "natural" and that she realised she could bring a distinct perspective to the panel, not only as a champion dancer but also from years of guiding celebrity partners through the high-pressure environment of the UK show. Industry analysts suggest this international opportunity is a strategically sound decision.
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Media consultant Dr. Elaine Harper of the London School of Arts noted the importance of diversification: “For professional dancers in long-running television shows, finding parallel streams of income and expertise is vital. A judging role provides longevity, demonstrating a broader understanding of performance and production values beyond the technical execution of a step. It also diversifies her public profile, moving her from being solely an on-the-floor personality to an authority figure. ” Current Challenges on the Strictly Dance Floor Despite her new commitments abroad, Jones remains a central figure on the British dance floor. In the current series, her partnership with Lewis Cope has generated considerable attention, particularly in the opening weeks. The pair delivered impressive early performances, including a highly energetic Jive. However, their subsequent Viennese Waltz drew divided commentary from the Strictly judging panel. Head Judge Shirley Ballas offered critique, stating that the routine was "too aggressive," despite acknowledging Cope’s power and potential in the competition. This critique prompted a visible response from Jones in the show’s companion programme, It Takes Two.
Addressing the judges' comments, Jones defended her approach to choreography: “I’ve been thinking about this a lot. On one side, as a pro, I’d have really loved for the judges to vocalise their appreciation for what you did do, for all the steps you spent hours and hours learning, they were there,” she noted. She further framed the performance in terms of artistic expression: “Dancing is an art form, it’s an expression. We put on this number together the way we felt was right for us. In any art, there are opinions from people that don’t connect with it, that like it or don’t like it. We are here to create what feels right and share it. ” This defence highlights the ongoing tension between the technical demands of ballroom and the creative expression inherent in performance television. Audience and Professional Perception Jones's career on Strictly has often been characterised by bold choreography and strong commitment to her partners, regardless of their starting ability—a dedication notably seen during her partnership with former politician Ed Balls. This commitment has sometimes led to high-profile moments, some celebrated and some controversial, which have maintained her profile in the British media landscape. Her recent expansion into judging roles mirrors the path of other Strictly professionals, such as Oti Mabuse and Anton Du Beke, who have successfully transitioned into more permanent judging and presenting positions within the wider BBC and commercial broadcasting sector.
The news of the Belgian judging role has caused minor speculation among UK fans about her long-term future with the British show. However, BBC representatives confirmed her commitment to the current series lineup, underscoring the feasibility of managing both roles due to the differing production schedules. Outlook Katya Jones's career appears to be evolving from that of an active professional competitor to a wider media personality and dance authority. Her ability to retain a strong presence in the competitive dance lineup while simultaneously accepting a prominent role as a judge overseas signals a strategic maturity in managing a high-profile media career. The ongoing performance of her and Lewis Cope on Strictly Come Dancing will continue to command public attention in the UK, even as her pronouncements from the Belgian judging desk add a new dimension to her global influence in dance broadcasting. Her current focus remains on ensuring her partner excels while she also prepares for the next phase of her professional life beyond the competitive dance floor. Wynne Evans & Katya Jones Viennese Waltz to The Blue Danube by Johann Strauss ll ✨ BBC Strictly 2024 provides context on Jones's past Strictly partnerships and their performances.
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