In an inspiring reflection on his life and career, Lewis Cope, the talented actor and dancer known for his role in *Strictly Come Dancing* and *Emmerdale*, shares his journey from a bustling family of 14 in Hartlepool to the bright lights of the West End. With candid insights into his childhood, challenges in the performing arts, and the importance of perseverance, Cope has become a beacon of hope for many aspiring artists.
A Chaotic Yet Loving Upbringing
Born in 1995, Lewis Cope grew up in a lively household with eight brothers and five sisters, where the sounds of laughter, chaos, and love filled the air. Positioned as the tenth child, Cope describes his upbringing as a constant whirlwind, with siblings looking out for one another amidst the organised chaos. He recalls, “There was never a quiet moment, and it was that sense of movement and camaraderie that shaped me.”
His mother, a dedicated beautician, seamlessly balanced her career with the demands of a large family, often taking all the children to various activities, from horse riding to boxing. It was during one of these outings that Cope reluctantly attended a dance class, initially loathing the idea but eventually discovering a passion that would change his life.
Embracing the Stage
At just 13 years old, Cope made his West End debut in *Billy Elliot the Musical*, portraying Michael, Billy’s flamboyant best friend. This role was more than just a performance; it was a revelation. “Being part of that story at such a young age was a complete eye-opener,” he shares. “It was the moment I realised that my dream of performing was achievable.” Despite the pressure of fitting in at school, he found sanctuary in the arts, stating, “I never got bullied for wearing a dress. I had so many brothers; if anyone tried anything, I always had backup.”
After his time in *Billy Elliot*, Cope returned to Hartlepool, joining a local dance group, Ruff Diamond, which led to a successful run on the television show *Got to Dance* in 2013. However, the journey wasn’t without its struggles. He faced moments of self-doubt and considered alternative career paths, even contemplating a job on the railway. Cope reflects on this crossroads, saying, “It’s mad how close I came to a completely different life.”
The Rise to Fame
Years later, a fortuitous audition for *Emmerdale* would change everything again. While on holiday, Cope quickly recorded a self-tape, not expecting much due to the industry’s unpredictability. “You can send off ten tapes and hear nothing back,” he explains. “The silence messes with your head.” However, his persistence paid off; seven weeks later, he received the call that would see him stepping into the role of Nicky Miligan.
Cope describes the experience of working on *Emmerdale* as surreal, with the show reaching millions each night. “The audience becomes incredibly familiar with you,” he says, recounting how strangers would greet him as if they knew him personally. Notably, he finds joy in knowing that his beloved Nana Dot was a fan of the show, creating a wonderful connection between family and career.
A New Chapter with Strictly
Now at 30, Cope is thriving in the *Strictly Come Dancing* live tour, which has reignited his passion for performance. “Dancing nine hours a day, six days a week has lifted me emotionally and physically,” he enthuses. Each week brings its own challenges, yet with the encouragement of his dance partner, Katya Jones, he learns to trust the process and embrace the journey. “If the 11-year-old version of me who auditioned for *Billy Elliot* could see where I am now, he’d be grateful I kept going,” he says with pride.
Why it Matters
Lewis Cope’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit. His journey from a bustling family home to the heights of the entertainment industry illustrates the importance of following one’s passion, even in the face of adversity. As he continues to inspire others with his performances, Cope not only showcases his talent but also shines a light on the significance of community and support in achieving dreams. His experiences remind us all that with determination and the right backing, anything is possible.
