Benji Schwimmer, American dancer and choreographer

Benjimen Daniel Schwimmer, born on January 18, 1984, is a highly acclaimed American professional dancer, choreographer, actor, and director. Renowned for his exceptional versatility and innovative contributions to the dance world, Schwimmer has built a distinguished career spanning various entertainment mediums, both in front of and behind the camera.

A Champion on "So You Think You Can Dance"

Schwimmer gained widespread national recognition as the formidable winner of the second season of the popular reality competition series, So You Think You Can Dance (SYTYCD) in 2006. His victory was a testament to his extraordinary talent, adaptability across multiple dance styles—from contemporary and hip-hop to his signature West Coast Swing—and his captivating stage presence. Following his triumph, he transitioned seamlessly into a pivotal role as a choreographer for the show, contributing numerous memorable and critically acclaimed routines for both the U.S. and various international iterations of SYTYCD. His choreography is celebrated for its intricate musicality and unique narrative approach, often pushing the boundaries of traditional dance forms.

Unparalleled World Dance Titles

One of Benji Schwimmer's most singular achievements lies in his unprecedented dominance within the competitive dance circuit, particularly in the realm of West Coast Swing. He holds the unique distinction of being the only dancer in the world to simultaneously hold World Championship titles in solo, partner (specifically Pro-Pro and Pro-Am divisions), and group categories within the highly competitive World Swing Dance Council (WSDC) circuit. This extraordinary "triple crown" feat underscores his exceptional skill, profound understanding of movement dynamics, and unparalleled versatility across all facets of competitive swing dance, making him a true icon in the global dance community.

Versatility Across Film, Television, and Stage

Schwimmer's creative footprint extends significantly beyond the dance competition stage. As an accomplished actor and director, he actively contributes to television, film, and live stage productions. His work behind the scenes is as impactful as his performances, showcasing his comprehensive understanding of visual storytelling and movement. A notable example of his choreographic prowess in film includes his role as the specialties choreographer for Quentin Tarantino's critically acclaimed 2019 film, "Once Upon a Time In Hollywood." In this capacity, Schwimmer was responsible for crafting and directing specific, intricate dance sequences and character movements crucial to the film's period authenticity and narrative, demonstrating his ability to infuse artistic movement into cinematic storytelling.

Frequently Asked Questions About Benji Schwimmer

Who is Benji Schwimmer?
Benji Schwimmer is an American professional dancer, choreographer, actor, and director, widely recognized for winning So You Think You Can Dance Season 2 and for his unparalleled achievements in competitive West Coast Swing.
What is Benji Schwimmer famous for?
He is famous for being the winner of So You Think You Can Dance (2006), for holding simultaneous World Championship titles in solo, partner, and group divisions in competitive dance, and for his extensive work as a choreographer and performer in film, TV, and stage.
Did Benji Schwimmer win So You Think You Can Dance?
Yes, Benji Schwimmer was the winner of the second season of So You Think You Can Dance in 2006, where he captivated audiences with his dynamic performances across various dance styles.
What World Dance Titles does Benji Schwimmer hold?
Benji Schwimmer holds the unique distinction of being the only dancer globally to simultaneously achieve World Championship titles in solo, partner, and group divisions within the highly regarded World Swing Dance Council (WSDC) competitive circuit, primarily in West Coast Swing.
What was Benji Schwimmer's role in "Once Upon a Time In Hollywood"?
He served as the specialties choreographer for Quentin Tarantino's "Once Upon a Time In Hollywood," where he was responsible for choreographing specific dance numbers and specialized movement sequences for the film.