Lewis Cope, the English actor and dancer known for his roles in Emmerdale and Strictly Come Dancing, recently reflected on his early career and upbringing in a candid interview. Born in Hartlepool, County Durham, on 19 March 1995, Cope grew up in a large family with 13 siblings, an experience that shaped his resilience and perspective on identity and expression. He first gained public attention as a child performer in the West End production of Billy Elliot the Musical at age 13, where he played Michael, Billy’s best friend.
Cope has spoken openly about how portraying Michael—a character who wears dresses without shame—was a formative experience that reinforced his belief in self-expression. He has stated that he never faced bullying for wearing a dress during his time in the production, noting instead that his brothers were involved in boxing, highlighting the varied interests within his household. This contrast, he has said, illustrated how individuality was respected in his family despite differing paths.
After his stint in Billy Elliot the Musical, Cope joined the hip-hop dance troupe Ruff Diamond and competed on Sky One’s Got to Dance in 2013, finishing as a runner-up in the series’ fourth season. Following this, he pursued formal training at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, which laid the foundation for his subsequent television work. He has since appeared in BBC series such as Doctors and Vera and joined the ITV soap Emmerdale in 2022 as Nicky Miligan, a role he portrayed until 2024.
In 2024, after leaving Emmerdale, Cope returned to the spotlight as a contestant on the twenty-third series of Strictly Come Dancing. His participation brought renewed attention to his background in dance and performance, particularly his early training in ballet and theatrical dance through Billy Elliot. He has since been involved in the Strictly Come Dancing live tour, which was scheduled to run until 15 February 2025.
Throughout his career, Cope has emphasized the importance of staying grounded and maintaining hope between roles, especially during periods of uncertainty in the acting profession. He has credited his upbringing in Northeast England with instilling a strong work ethic and a sense of humility, values he carries into his professional life. His reflections on family, identity, and perseverance continue to resonate with audiences who have followed his journey from child star to established performer.