During the introductory show on Friday (February 23, 8:15 p.m., RTL), the heavily pregnant professional dancer Renata Lusin (36) sat in the audience and, among other things, cheered on her husband, professional dancer and last year’s winner Valentin Lusin (36). At the end of the show it was clear that this year he would be dancing with motorcycle influencer Ann-Kathrin Bendixen (24, “Monkey on Bike”).
Whether the victory trophy will be won again is still up in the air. What is clear, however, is that the Lusins’ first child together will be born during this edition of the popular dance show. To the after-show question from Frauke Ludowig (60) – “What happens if you get the call on a Friday morning?” – the expectant parents appear well prepared. “The two of them train in Cologne. That’s super practical” because it’s not that far from home in Düsseldorf.
“Of course he always has to be available. We have agreed that he will definitely be there at the birth. I still want him to dance, to pursue his passion,” says Renata Lusin in an interview with the broadcaster. The father-to-be raves about the unborn daughter: “It will definitely be a ‘Let’s Dance’ baby. I’m looking forward to a very exciting time on ‘Let’s Dance’, but also to the wonderful time together…”
In addition to Lusin and Bendixen, these celebrity-professional dance couples also take on the challenge: choreographer Detlef “D!” Soost (53) dances with the three-time “Let’s Dance” winner Ekaterina Leonova (36). “The Mountain Doctor” star Mark Keller (58) is the oldest celebrity in the group. He will dance with the two-time show winner Kathrin Menzinger (35). The youngest of the bunch, singer Gabriel Kelly (22), was assigned to Malika Dzumaev (32). Thanks to a direct ticket, the two are safe in the first regular episode.
Singer Lulu Lewe (31) is entering the race with the two-time “Let’s Dance” winner Massimo Sinató (43). Sports journalist Jana Wosnitza (30) has Vadim Garbuzov (36) at her side. Replacement and motivation coach Biyon Kattilathu (39) trains with Marta Arndt (34). Model Eva Padberg (44), the oldest woman in the group, will whirl around the dance floor with “Let’s Dance” returnee Paul Lorenz (36).
Food blogger Stefano Zarrellas (33) and dance professional Mariia Maksina (27). Patricija Ionel (28) will train “The Lions’ Den” investor Tillman Schulz (34). Fitness influencer Sophia Thiel (28) has the pleasure of dating Alexandru Ionel (29). “Bibi and Tina” actress Lina Larissa Strahl (26) is coached by Zsolt Sándor Cseke (36). Comedienne Maria Clara Groppler (24) tries her luck with show newcomer Mikael Tatarkin (27). And comedian Tony Bauer (28) will perform with the second show newcomer, Anastasia Stan (26).
