Carlos Gu has become one of those dancers who instantly grabs your attention the moment he steps onto the floor. His energy, precision, and expressive style make every performance feel like a personal conversation—even if you’re watching from your sofa. But behind the polished routines and confident smile lies a story shaped by family influences, fierce competition, brave personal choices, and a deep commitment to artistic growth.

If you’ve ever wondered how Carlos went from a young boy in Taiyuan to one of the standout professionals on Strictly Come Dancing, get ready for an inside look at the milestones, challenges, and passions that shaped his journey.

1. How His Childhood Laid the Foundation for Greatness

Carlos Gu’s story begins in Taiyuan, China, where creativity wasn’t just encouraged—it was part of his home culture. His mother, Lilian Li, recognized early on that Carlos had something special. Instead of pushing him toward a “safer” path, she opened the door for him to explore dance fully.

His sister, Carolina Tan, also leaned toward artistic expression, so their home often buzzed with music, sketches, and imaginative energy. That kind of support gives a young performer permission to dream big, and Carlos did exactly that.

He wasn’t just dabbling in dance—he was studying it like a language. Movements, emotions, rhythms… all of it fascinated him. Those childhood years became the foundation for everything he would later become.

2. His Early Triumphs Showed the Dance World He Was a Force to Be Reckoned With

Before stepping onto the Strictly stage, Carlos had already built a résumé dancers would envy. His competitive achievements reveal just how hard he worked long before British audiences discovered him.

Some of his standout accomplishments include:

• Chinese National Dance Champion — a title that signalled his rising dominance early in his career.

• Semi-finalist in multiple world competitions — an achievement only the most driven dancers reach.

• Third place at the prestigious German Open Championships — one of Europe’s toughest competitions.

• Amateur Latin Rising Star Runner-Up at the 2017 UK Open — an honour that helped open more international doors.

These wins didn’t just prove his talent—they tested his discipline, endurance, and ability to adapt under intense pressure. Every competition sharpened his skills and nudged him closer to the global stage.

3. How Joining Strictly Come Dancing Became a Career-Changing Breakthrough

When the BBC announced the new Strictly Come Dancing professionals for 2022, fans immediately searched his name. Who was this charismatic Chinese dancer joining established pros? How would he fit into the lineup?

As it turns out, Carlos didn’t just fit in—he stood out.

He joined the show alongside Vito Coppola, Lauren Oakley, and Michelle Tsiakkas, creating a wave of fresh talent. From the moment he was paired with singer-actress Molly Rainford, viewers saw something special. Their routines were expressive, dynamic, and beautifully polished, earning them a spot in the grand final.

Finishing as runners-up in his debut season was no small feat. It instantly cemented Carlos as one of the most exciting new pros to watch.

4. His 2023 Season Proved He’s More Than Just a Skilled Technician

The following year, Carlos returned with television presenter Angela Scanlon as his partner. Their chemistry was playful and warm, and they approached each dance with a storytelling mindset.

Their Argentine Tango, which scored a show-stopping 38 points, became one of the highlights of the series. Even though they exited in week 10, the season showcased Carlos’s ability to choreograph routines that match his partner’s personality and strengths.

This is what makes him stand out:
he doesn’t just dance at you—he dances with you. And he brings that same collaborative spirit into every performance.

5. His Artistic Side Extends Far Beyond Dance

Here’s something many fans don’t know: dance isn’t Carlos’s only creative outlet.

On his 32nd birthday, he revealed a deeply personal project—his first artwork titled Reborn. The piece wasn’t just a pretty painting. It was a visual reflection of the emotional journey he had been through, especially during his move from China to the UK.

Carlos described the artwork as a meditation on:

• personal reinvention

• emotional healing

• the meaning of identity

• the beauty of second chances

This painting was more than a debut; it was a statement. Carlos wasn’t just a dancer. He was an evolving, multidimensional artist.

6. His Move to the UK Marked a Brave Turning Point in His Personal Life

Carlos doesn’t shy away from sharing parts of his personal journey that matter—not for gossip, but for inspiration.

Relocating to the UK wasn’t just about dance opportunities. It was about freedom.

He once shared that moving allowed him to understand himself more deeply, especially regarding his sexuality and personal identity. His exact words say it best:

“I feel like I’ve been given the chance to be reborn and to live the life that I’ve been dreaming of for years.”

That level of honesty has made him a relatable figure for fans who see him not just as a performer, but as someone who had the courage to choose authenticity over comfort.

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7. His Upcoming Tour Will Take Audiences Even Deeper Into His Story

Carlos’s next big project is already creating a buzz.
In 2025, he will embark on a nationwide UK tour with fellow Strictly star Amy Dowden. The tour shares the same title as his artwork: Reborn.

This isn’t just a dance show. It’s a narrative experience blending:

• storytelling

• choreography

• personal memories

• emotional themes

Fans can expect a performance that feels intimate, expressive, and deeply reflective of Carlos’s journey—both as an artist and as a person.

FAQs About Carlos Gu

Who is Carlos Gu?

Carlos Gu is a Chinese-born professional dancer and choreographer best known for starring on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. His powerful technique and emotionally rich routines have earned him global recognition.

What awards has Carlos Gu won?

His achievements include:

• Chinese National Dance Champion

• Multiple world championships semi-finalist

• Third place at the German Open

• Amateur Latin Rising Star Runner-Up at the 2017 UK Open

Who were Carlos Gu’s partners on Strictly Come Dancing?

He partnered with:

• Molly Rainford (2022): reached the grand final

• Angela Scanlon (2023): reached week 10

What is Carlos Gu’s next major project?

His upcoming 2025 tour, Reborn, created with Amy Dowden, blends artistic storytelling with high-level choreography.

Where can you follow Carlos Gu?

He shares dance clips, behind-the-scenes moments, and personal updates on his Instagram account.

Final Thoughts

Carlos Gu’s journey is a mix of passion, discipline, artistic curiosity, and real emotional growth. From his early dance days in Taiyuan to the high-pressure stages of Strictly Come Dancing, he has carried the same drive: a belief that movement can tell stories words sometimes can’t.

Every performance, every painting, every new project is another chapter in his ongoing evolution. And with his upcoming tour promising a blend of dance and personal insight, fans have plenty to look forward to.

If you enjoy stories about rising stars, fearless performers, and artists who are constantly reinventing themselves, Carlos Gu is someone worth watching closely—because his journey is only just beginning.