In a surprising twist ahead of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing, the CV of contestant Lawrence Robb has come under scrutiny for omitting his previous dance experience. The Emmerdale star, who is set to grace the dance floor in the upcoming series, has seen his impressive background in various dance styles vanish from his online profile. This revelation has reignited discussions about the level of prior dance training among contestants and the implications it has for the competition.
A Mysterious Omission
Robb’s current CV, accessible through United Agents, fails to mention any dance skills, instead highlighting his vocal abilities and various accents, along with sports proficiency like swimming and skiing. However, an investigation using the Wayback Machine reveals that his profile once boasted a rich history of training in jazz, tap, ballet, modern, contemporary, and pas de deux.
The lack of this information has raised eyebrows, leading many to question whether this adjustment was a strategic move to align with the show’s ethos of promoting inclusivity among contestants, regardless of their previous experience.
Dance Experience: A Common Thread
It is important to note that Robb is not the first celebrity on Strictly Come Dancing to have dance training prior to joining the programme. Historically, many contestants have had backgrounds in performance arts, making the debate over their past experiences a recurring theme. This year alone, several participants, including Angela Rippon, Ellie Leach, and Layton Williams, have been open about their dance histories.
Rippon, for instance, formerly chaired the English National Ballet, while Leach and Williams, who ultimately secured the first and second spots in the competition, have both insisted that their experience did not provide an unfair advantage. Leach stated, “While I studied tap, ballet, and street dance when I was younger, it in no way trained me in Ballroom or Latin.” Williams echoed this sentiment, asserting that though he has a foundation in jazz and tap, the world of Latin and Ballroom dancing is completely new for him.
Professional Insights on Contestant Experience
In 2025, professional dancer Lauren Oakley defended contestants with prior dance experience, addressing criticism directed at Emmerdale’s Lewis Cope and Love Island’s Amber Davies. Oakley emphasised that “Strictly is about inclusivity and inclusivity doesn’t stop at ability.” She further explained that a background in one dance genre does not guarantee success in another, stating, “Even professionals can struggle. It’s a completely different experience.”
Such insights highlight the show’s broader mission of providing entertainment while allowing contestants to learn and grow in a supportive environment. Oakley concluded by saying, “Everyone’s there to have a lovely time and make sure people at home enjoy it.”
New Faces and Fresh Changes
As the 24th series of Strictly Come Dancing approaches, significant changes are also in the air behind the scenes. Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe will be stepping into the roles of hosts, taking over from the departing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
In an exciting announcement, former contestant Ellie Taylor has been named the new host of the popular spin-off show, It Takes Two. Taylor expressed her enthusiasm for rejoining the Strictly universe, promising a “refreshed” format for the show. She aims to create a more engaging atmosphere, encouraging audience participation and candid conversations among contestants and professionals alike.
Why it Matters
The ongoing discussion surrounding Lawrence Robb’s altered CV encapsulates a broader dialogue about the nature of competition in entertainment. As viewers become increasingly aware of contestants’ backgrounds, the integrity of the competition may come into question. This situation serves as a reminder that while prior experience can shape a contestant’s journey, the essence of Strictly Come Dancing lies in the celebration of personal growth, inclusivity, and the joy of dance—a reminder that resonates with audiences and participants alike.