MICHELLE Tsiakkas began her Strictly Come Dancing journey in 2022.
The professional dancer is supported by boyfriend Simone Arena. Here’s everything you need to know about him.
Michelle Tsiakkas is in a relationship with professional dancer Simone Arena.
He is an Italian dancer and choreographer and was born on August 7, 1991.
His love of dancing began when he was just a child and by the age of 16 he became the Vice Italian Latin Champion.
Simone has danced on Dancing With The Stars in Belgium, Italy and Ireland.
In December 2021, the dancer joined the cast of Dancing with the Stars.
He was partnered with artistic gymnast Nina Derwael and the duo went on to win the series.
He joined Italy’s version in 2022 where he danced with TV presenter, Marta Flavi and they were first to be sent home.
In November 2023, Simone announced he would be joining the Irish version of Dancing with the Stars.
He said: “Ciao everyone! am very excited to share with all of you some exciting news.
“I will be a new Professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars Ireland! @dwtsirl The cat’s out of the bag, and this Italian is ready to bring some fun dancing and a pinch of pasta and pizza to the dance floor.
“Get ready for a delicious journey with me. Who is going to be my partner?”
Simone danced with Ru Paul’s Drag Race winner Blu Hydrangea and they managed to come runners up.
However, in 2024 Simone posted a message to his Instagram where he said he would be taking a break from Dancing with the Stars.
He said: “I’ve been quiet for a while here.
“A lot has been happening since ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ and I needed to take some time to focus on what matters most.
“I’m back in London now and excited to see what’s next.”
He joined Burn the Floor in 2014 which toured London’s West End and around the world including China, Australia and Japan.
In 2019, Simone was announced as part of the cast of Somnium: A Dancer’s Dream with Strictly Come Dancing stars Katya Jones and Neil Jones.
Simone joined the cast of Giovanni Pernice’s This is Me tour in 2020 but this was postponed due to the Covid 19 pandemic.
Michelle and Simone have been a relationship since they met on the Burn the Floor tour.
It’s not known exactly how long they have been together.
The pair are often seen posting loved up snaps on their Instagram pages.
On August 29, 2024, Simone shared a sweet message to celebrate his girlfriend’s birthday.
He wrote: “Happy birthday, babe! @michelle_tsiak.
“You’re such a ray of sunshine, always brightening everything you touch with your warmth and light. Here’s to the exciting times ahead! I know this is going to be your year to shine.
“I love you so much!”
WITH Strictly's 20th anniversary special airing in September, The Sun takes a look at which celebs have been confirmed for the new series:
