Motsi Mabuse – the vibrant, effervescent, and deeply insightful judge who has captivated millions on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. From her infectious laugh to her passionate critiques, Motsi has become an indispensable part of the UK’s beloved ballroom show, bringing a unique blend of expertise, empathy, and sheer joy to the judging panel. Her journey, however, stretches far beyond the glitterball, encompassing a remarkable career as a competitive dancer, a respected judge on international stages, and a powerful voice for authenticity and self-acceptance. This article delves into the fascinating life and career of Motsi Mabuse, exploring the myriad reasons why she continues to be a subject of intense interest, sparking searches on social media.

The Early Rhythm: A Childhood Steeped in Dance

Born on April 11, 1981, in Mankwe, South Africa, Motsi Mabuse’s connection to dance began at a very young age. Growing up in a country grappling with the realities of apartheid, dance offered an escape and a powerful form of expression for her and her younger sisters, including the equally celebrated Oti Mabuse. Her mother, who ran a dance school, was a pivotal figure, fostering their passion and fighting tirelessly for fair treatment for black dancers in a segregated system. Motsi recalls starting to dance at six years old, quickly progressing to a competitive level by the age of 11. She achieved significant success, becoming a runner-up in the South African national championships in 1998.

Despite initially studying law at the University of Pretoria, with the expectation of entering the family business, Motsi’s heart remained on the dance floor. At 19, she made the courageous decision to pursue her dance dreams fully, a gamble that saw her move to Germany in 2000. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of her professional international career, where she would continue to compete, win numerous South African dance championships, and earn accolades across the globe for her Latin American dance performances. It was during this period that she met her future husband and dance partner, Evgenij Voznyuk, with whom she now runs a successful dance school in Germany.

From Dancer to Judge: Conquering German and UK Television

Motsi Mabuse’s transition from a professional dancer to a television personality and judge began in Germany. In 2007, she joined Let’s Dance, the German equivalent of Strictly Come Dancing, first as a professional dancer and then, from 2011, as a judge. Her engaging personality, sharp critiques, and vibrant energy quickly made her a household name in Germany, cementing her reputation as a knowledgeable and charismatic presence on screen. She continues to hold this judging role alongside her Strictly commitments.

The call to join the judging panel of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing in 2019 was a significant moment, particularly as it meant she would be judging her younger sister, Oti, who was then a popular professional dancer on the show. This unique dynamic sparked immediate public interest and some initial concerns about potential bias, which Motsi and Oti addressed by maintaining strict professionalism and limiting contact during the show’s run. Motsi stepped into the shoes of the much-loved Darcey Bussell, and despite the contrasting styles, her expertise and insightful adjudication quickly won over the British public. Her warm, expressive, and often emotionally charged feedback became her trademark, making her an instant fan favourite.

The Motsi Mabuse Judging Style: Passion, Expertise, and Heart

Motsi Mabuse’s judging style is a unique blend of technical insight, genuine encouragement, and unbridled joy. She is known for:

Emotional Expressiveness: Motsi wears her heart on her sleeve. Her reactions to dances, whether delight, surprise, or even disappointment, are often visible and infectious. This emotional authenticity resonates deeply with viewers.

Technical Acumen: With years of competitive Latin American dance experience, Motsi provides detailed and knowledgeable critiques on footwork, hip action, musicality, and overall performance. She understands the nuances of each dance style deeply.

Positive Reinforcement: While she doesn’t shy away from constructive criticism, Motsi is a strong advocate for celebrating effort and improvement. She often highlights the positive aspects of a performance, even when pointing out areas for development, fostering a supportive environment for the celebrities.

Charismatic Presence: Her infectious laugh, vibrant outfits, and engaging banter with fellow judges, particularly Craig Revel Horwood, add to the entertainment value of the show. She brings an undeniable energy to the panel.

Advocacy for Growth: Motsi consistently encourages contestants to push their boundaries, embrace vulnerability, and fully immerse themselves in the dance journey. She believes that the true magic of Strictly lies in the personal transformation of the participants.

Her judging style has been a constant topic of discussion on platforms like YouTube and Quora, with fans often dissecting her comments, celebrating her reactions, and debating her scores. Many view her as a breath of fresh air on the panel, bringing a much-needed injection of passion and genuine human connection.

Beyond the Ballroom: Family Life and Personal Insights

Away from the dazzling lights of the Strictly ballroom, Motsi Mabuse leads a grounded family life. She resides in Germany with her husband, Evgenij Voznyuk, and their young daughter, whose name they have chosen to keep private. Motsi often speaks about the importance of family and the values instilled in her by her parents, who pushed her and her sisters to pursue education and success despite the challenges they faced growing up in apartheid South Africa. Her autobiography, Finding My Own Rhythm, offers a deeper insight into her personal journey, including her early struggles with self-perception and how dance became her sanctuary and source of strength. She has also spoken openly about her “inner child trauma” and how seeing herself on Strictly allows her to look through the eyes of that child and appreciate how far she has come.

Motsi’s relationship with her sister Oti is also a significant aspect of her public persona. While they maintained professional distance during Oti’s time as a Strictly professional, their bond is clearly strong, with both sisters frequently expressing pride in each other’s achievements. Their joint appearance on ITV’s DNA Journey further highlighted their shared heritage and family history, connecting them to notable figures in South African history.

Impact and Influence: A Role Model and Advocate

Motsi Mabuse’s impact extends beyond her judging duties. She has become a role model for many, particularly young black women, by:

Promoting Diversity and Representation: By showcasing her authentic self, including her vibrant personality and diverse hairstyles, Motsi actively champions inclusivity. She has worn various African hairstyles on Strictly to inspire viewers and encourage them to embrace their choices, receiving overwhelming positive feedback.

Advocating for Mental Well-being: Motsi has been vocal about the importance of mental health, participating in campaigns that encourage movement for mental upliftment. She shares how dance serves as her “escapism” and a way to clear her mind from a busy schedule.

Empowering Women: Through her platform, she aims to empower young girls and women, using her visibility to inspire confidence and self-belief.

Charitable Engagements: Motsi and her husband have actively supported those affected by the conflict in Ukraine, with Evgenij driving to the border to assist refugees and Motsi supporting Ukrainian dancers. This showcases her compassionate nature and commitment to humanitarian causes.

Her journey from a challenging upbringing in South Africa to becoming a celebrated international personality demonstrates resilience, determination, and the transformative power of dance.

FAQs

What is Motsi Mabuse known for? 

She is best known as a judge on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing and on Let’s Dance (the German equivalent of Strictly). She also had a successful career as a professional Latin American dancer.

Is Motsi Mabuse related to Oti Mabuse? 

Yes, Motsi Mabuse is the older sister of Oti Mabuse, who was a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing.

What is Motsi Mabuse’s judging style like? 

Motsi is known for her emotional, expressive, and often enthusiastic judging style, combining technical expertise with positive encouragement and a charismatic presence.
Does Motsi Mabuse have a dance school? 

Yes, Motsi Mabuse and her husband, Evgenij Voznyuk, run a dance school in Germany.

Has Motsi Mabuse written a book? 

Yes, she has written an autobiography titled Finding My Own Rhythm.

What languages does Motsi Mabuse speak? 

Motsi speaks multiple languages fluently, including English, German, and her native South African languages.

Final Thought

Motsi Mabuse has seamlessly transitioned from a celebrated dancer to an adored television personality, enriching the fabric of UK entertainment with her vibrant presence. Her journey, rooted in dedication, resilience, and an unwavering love for dance, resonates with audiences far beyond the confines of the ballroom. She stands as a testament to the power of authenticity, turning her passion into a platform for joy, encouragement, and important conversations around mental well-being and self-acceptance. As she continues to grace our screens with her insightful critiques and infectious laughter, Motsi Mabuse remains a cherished figure, forever intertwined with the magic and sparkle of Strictly Come Dancing, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of millions.

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