The excitement is palpable as fans of dance gear up for the much-anticipated 18th season of "Let’s Dance," which officially kicked off on February 21, 2025. This year, the competitive atmosphere is electrified with celebrities like Jeanette Biedermann, Marc Eggers, and Fabian Hambüchen teaming up with seasoned dancers like Ekaterina Leonova, Valentin Lusin, and Massimo Sinató. Together, these couples will vie for the coveted title of Dancing Stars, showcasing their skills across various dance styles including the elegant waltz, upbeat quickstep, and spirited jive. Notably, the seasoned professionals have come ready to inspire, cultivate talent, and bring their finesse to the dance floor, reflective of their many years of experience.
"Let’s Dance" is not just about the celebrity participants; the professional dancers are equally integral to the show’s success and have gained significant popularity over the years, developing their own fan bases. From previous winners to distinguished competitors, this season promises to reveal the dancing prowess of both new and returning professionals. Each couple has begun rigorous training routines, rehearsing tirelessly to bring their best to the stage as they aim for the judges' approval and audience affection.
This year, the expert panel of judges includes the familiar faces of Motsi Mabuse, Horacio González, and Joachim Llambi, who will provide their insights and critiques to the couples. The show’s hosts, Victoria Swarovski and Daniel Hartwich, will guide viewers through each electrifying episode, heightening the thrill for audience members at home.
The distinguished cast of dancers this season includes:
- Malika Dzumaev (34, from Bremen) - Partnering with Ben Zucker. Malika, who won the "Let’s Dance" Christmas Special with Rurik Gislason and was crowned the winner of the 2024 edition with Gabriel Kelly, continues to impress with her captivating moves.
- Patricija Ionel (30, from Hamburg) - Dancing with Taliso Engel. A former Miss Lithuania and designer, her experience spans competitions where she has excelled.
- Kathrin Menzinger (36, from Vienna) - Partnering with Roland Trettl. With multiple world championship titles and previous wins on the show, she is well-prepared to shine this year.
- Anastasia Maruster (27, from Pforzheim) - Dancing for the second time with Fabian Hambüchen, she brings her extensive background as a trainer and competitor.
- Ekaterina Leonova (37, from Munich) - Partnering with Diego Pooth, the three-time winner returns to continue her legacy.
- Renata Lusin (37, from Düsseldorf) - With Marc Eggers, this veteran won the show with Rurik Gislason and has garnered acclaim across competitions.
- Christina Hänni (35, from Thun) - Partnering with Osan Yaran, she has roots as both practitioner and trainer, previously having won the 2020 and 2022 editions.
Among the male professionals, we have:
- Zsolt Sándor Cseke (37, from Bremen) - Partnering with Sandra Safiulov. A veteran of multiple competitions, including being the North German champion.
- Alexandru Ionel (30, from Hamburg) - Partnering with Marie Mouroum. He is not only successful as a dancer but also balances his career as a dentist.
- Massimo Sinató (44, from Mannheim) - Partnering with Paola Maria, he holds dazzling wins under his belt and has continued to captivate audiences since his debut.
- Valentin Lusin (38, from Düsseldorf) - With Christine Neubauer, he brings talent and tactical support, aiming for yet another victory.
- Vadim Garbuzov (37, from Vienna) - Partnering with Jeannette Biedermann, he returns to the show to secure another memorable performance.
- Sergiu Maruster (32, from Pforzheim) - Dancing with Leyla Lahouar, he is also making his vibrant debut as a professional.
- Evgeny Vinokurov (34, from Bremen) - With Simone Thomalla, he has combined his competitive spirit with his experience for the ultimate collaboration.
One of the highlights of this inaugural episode was the dynamic dance-off between the returning champions and new contenders, creating lively competition and ensuring suspense for viewers. Taliso Engel and his partner Patricija Ionel, who earned fame through their incredible performances, surprised everyone by winning the direct ticket to the next round after their stellar performance, overcoming challenges including Taliso's visual impairment. His upbeat spirit was stated as "an incredible experience, full of joy and enthusiasm; this is more than just competition for me."
Celebrated performer Christine Neubauer, dancing with Valentin Lusin, expressed her delight post-performance, saying, "This is just amazing, it's pure happiness here!" Similarly, Motsi Mabuse recognized the potential for growth, particularly highlighting Taliso's remarkable posture and how wonderfully he responded to choreography, giving him high marks for his efforts.
This year’s competition promises not just to entertain but also to bring awareness and glimpses of personal stories, dedication, and the hard work behind the glitz and glamour of dance. Each celebrity's experience, coupled with their professional partners' expertise, lays the groundwork for spectacular routines and emotional journeys.
Expectations run high as fans connect with these inspiring dancers and cheer for their favorites on this rollercoaster ride filled with passion, drama, and unparalleled artistry. Be sure to catch the action every Friday night on RTL and join the enthralling world of dance, where dreams do come true!