STRICTLY BOMBSHELL: Nikita Kuzmin has just dropped an emotional announcement, revealing that he is finally brave to share this… Read more
In a heartwarming announcement that’s got the Strictly Come Dancing fandom buzzing with excitement and admiration, professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin has revealed his latest passion project – and it’s one that’s truly close to his heart! The 28-year-old Ukrainian-born hunk, who’s dazzled us with his fancy footwork on the BBC ballroom floor, took to social media to drop the bombshell: he’s lacing up his trainers to run the iconic London Marathon in aid of Diabetes UK. “So excited to finally share this…” Nikita gushed in a touching video, his eyes sparkling with a mix of nerves and determination as he opened up about the cause that’s shaped his life since he was just 13. Fans and famous pals alike have flooded him with support, proving once again why this Strictly star is one of the most beloved figures in British telly.
The big reveal came just days ago, with Nikita posting a sunny selfie in a bright blue running vest, beaming against a backdrop of lush green fields. “I’m running the London Marathon for Diabetes UK!” he declared, his voice cracking with emotion in the accompanying clip. “This is something I’ve wanted to do for so long, and it’s finally happening. Diabetes has been part of my life since I was a kid, and this charity has been incredible in supporting people like me. Let’s raise some money and awareness!” The post, which has racked up thousands of likes and shares, shows Nikita in full athlete mode – necklace glinting in the sun, his trademark blond highlights swept back, looking every inch the determined sportsman ready to conquer 26.2 miles.
But why is this challenge so personal for the Strictly pro? Nikita was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the tender age of 13, a life-changing moment that could have derailed his dreams of becoming a world-class dancer. Instead, he’s turned it into his “superpower,” as he’s fondly called it in past interviews. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, requiring lifelong management with injections, pumps, and constant blood sugar monitoring. For Nikita, it’s meant wearing an insulin pump even during high-energy Strictly routines – a small white patch on his back that’s become a symbol of his resilience. “It’s a daily battle, but it makes me stronger,” he once told Lorraine Kelly on her show, flashing that million-dollar smile that melts hearts nationwide.
Fans have long admired how openly Nikita shares his journey, normalizing the condition on a prime-time stage. During his Strictly stints, viewers have spotted his pump peeking out from under sequined shirts, sparking conversations and praise for “showing it’s okay to be different.” One eagle-eyed fan tweeted during the 2024 series: “Shoutout to Nikita for rocking his insulin pump on live TV – you’re inspiring so many!” Now, by tackling the marathon, he’s taking advocacy to new heights, aiming to raise funds for Diabetes UK, a charity he’s supported for five years. “They help diabetics today and fund research for tomorrow,” he explained in his video, urging followers to donate via his fundraising page. As of press time, the pot has swelled to over ÂŁ5,000, with more pouring in by the hour.
The support has been overwhelming, with celebs and co-stars leading the charge. Love Island’s Vicky Pattison, a pal from the showbiz circuit, commented: “Well done petal! You’ve got this – so proud.” Fellow Strictly pro Karen Hauer added fire emojis and a “Go Nikita!” while Vito Coppola, his ballroom buddy, wrote: “Brother, you’re a legend. We’ll be cheering you on!” Fans haven’t held back either. @emmaruthcox gushed: “This is amazing!! You will smash it! So proud of you.” @emmalouise1223 echoed: “Love to hear you using your superpower for such a worthy cause.” And @graceg2701, who shares Nikita’s condition, shared: “Amazing news and for such a great cause! All the best. I will see you there, showing that Type 1 Diabetics can run marathons.” Even @numbersof_mine chimed in: “Amazing Nikita. You will have all the t1d community behind you.”
This isn’t the first time Nikita’s health has taken center stage. Born Nikita Kuzmin on December 23, 1997, in Kyiv, Ukraine, he grew up in a dancing dynasty – his parents were competitive dancers, and his sister Anastasia is a pro too. The family moved to Italy when he was young, where Nikita honed his skills, becoming a six-time Italian Latin and Ballroom Champion. But at 13, the diabetes diagnosis hit like a thunderbolt. “I thought my career was over,” he admitted in a 2022 interview with The Sun. “Dancing requires so much energy – how could I manage my levels?” With family support and medical help, he adapted, using tech like continuous glucose monitors to keep performing at elite levels.
Nikita’s big break came in 2021 when he joined Strictly Come Dancing, partnering with Tilly Ramsay and wowing judges with his charisma and choreography. “He’s a natural,” Craig Revel Horwood raved. Over four series, he’s danced with stars like Ellie Simmonds (2022), Layton Williams (2023, reaching the final), and Sam Quek (2024). His partnership with Layton was historic – the first same-sex male couple to make the final – earning praise for inclusivity. Off the floor, Nikita’s life is just as glittering. He’s in a loved-up relationship with model Lauren Jaine, 25, whom he met in 2023. The pair went Instagram official with cozy snaps, and Nikita recently celebrated her birthday with a gushing post: “Happy 25th to the love of my life!” Co-stars like Jowita Przystal and Carlos Gu flooded the comments with hearts.
But life’s not all sequins. Nikita’s faced homesickness, especially after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, with family still there. “It’s heartbreaking,” he told OK! Magazine. He’s also navigated the Strictly “curse” rumors – linked to partners like Tilly, but always denying romance. “We’re just friends,” he insists. His tour life adds excitement: After the 2025 Strictly arena tour, he announced his solo show, Supernova, hitting stages in 2026. “It’s finally happening!” he beamed on Insta, promising dance, song, and party vibes.
Diabetes UK, the charity benefiting from his run, supports over 4.9 million UK diabetics. “Nikita’s story inspires,” a spokesperson said. “Funds help research cures and daily management.” Type 1 affects 400,000 Brits, often kids, with no prevention – just management. Nikita’s pump, visible on Strictly, has educated millions. “It’s my superpower,” he says, echoing fans who call him a role model.
As marathon day approaches – April 27, 2026 – Nikita’s training hard. “Nervous but excited,” he admits. Fans speculate: Will Strictly pals join? Will he wear his pump proudly? One thing’s sure: This dancer’s steps will make a difference.
Nikita’s rise: From Kyiv kid to Strictly sensation. Moved to Italy at 9, danced with sister. Joined Dancepoint Germany, then Strictly. Partners: Tilly (quarter-finals), Ellie (week 6), Layton (finalists), Sam (week 5). Layton’s partnership: “Brother for life.”
Personal life: With Lauren, a Frankfurt model. Recent puppy Mabel addition – “Dream come true!” Family: Close to grandma with heart issues? Wait, diabetes focus.
Fan theories: Will marathon lead to more advocacy? Documentary? Strictly judges praise his energy despite condition.
Diabetes impact: “Changed my life, but didn’t stop me.” Inspires young diabetics.
As Nikita pounds pavements, nation’s behind him. Donate here: [link]. Go, Nikita – you’re a star!