Ian Waite

Ian Waite has established himself as a prominent figure in the world of professional dance, transitioning from a decorated competitor to a popular television personality and choreographer. After achieving international recognition as the European Youth Latin American Champion, Ian Waite cemented his position as a formidable competitor in professional dance. His early success included a decade-long partnership with Melanie Walker, representing England in global competitions. Waite turned professional in 1997, swiftly forming a partnership with Inga Haas.

Within nine months, they secured an impressive third place in the British Professional Rising Stars competition. Waite then relocated to the Netherlands to train with choreographer Ruud Vermeij. For four years, he partnered with Natalia Panina, a collaboration that saw them win the Dutch Championship and reach the finals of both the World Showdance Championship and the European Professional Latin American Championship. Returning to the UK, Waite partnered with Camilla Dallerup in 2004, achieving semi-finals at the International Championships at the Royal Albert Hall and reaching the finals of the British National Dance Championships that November.

His career expanded into lecturing, demonstration dancing, large-scale performances, presenting the BBC South documentary ‘Inside Out,’ and collaborating on a dance video with Angela Rippon. Waite became a household name as a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, joining the cast in 2004. In his debut season, he finished as runner-up with celebrity partner Denise Lewis. He continued to impress, securing third place with Zoë Ball in 2005 and again achieving runner-up status with Ball in the 2006 Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special.

Looking ahead, Waite has been announced to teach and perform at Donahey’s Dancing with The Stars Weekends in 2025, continuing to share his expertise and passion for dance with a wide audience.