Finally! It’s about time!
Dancer and choreographer Britt Stewart just made history as the first Black woman to be selected as a dance pro on ABC’s hit show, “Dancing With the Stars (DWTS),” Women’s Health Mag reports.
Stewart is a professional ballroom dancer who has been on DWTS’ troupe team, a group of dancers who perform, but are not paired with celebrity cast mates for the last five seasons. She previously toured primarily as a dancer with top tier music artists including Rihanna, Janet Jackson and Katy Perry. She also has worked as a choreographer, teaching jazz, latin balloon, and latin jazz classes during her free time.
The famed dancer quickly became a fan favorite on the show, despite her not being a “pro dancer.” When it was announced last year that the troupe dancers wouldn’t be returning for Season 28 of the show, fans quickly started an online petition to make Stewart a pro dancer on DWTS.
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“I would love to be a pro. I think that is definitely a short-term goal of mine,” Stewart told ET news at the time. “I don’t know when it’s going to happen but I have my fingers crossed that [it is] going to happen very soon.”
Well now, she’s met her goal, Stewart will be returning to the DWTS family as a pro dancer, becoming the first Black female to ever hold the title, along with Tyra Banks as its new host just in time for the 29th season.
“I’m just so grateful, so excited and over the moon, honestly. Ever since I found out, I just don’t really know what to do with myself. So much excitement, so much emotion,” Stewart said. “To be the first Black female pro is such an honor, and I definitely don’t take it lightly. Having this opportunity and position is just so beautiful. I’m so happy to take it on and also be a part of a show that celebrates diversity.”
The newest season of Dancing With the Stars airs Monday, September 14th at 8pm EST on ABC.
Congratulations, Britt!
Photo Courtesy of @brittbenae/Instagram