Births on January 19

Pasha Kovalev, Russian-American dancer and choreographer

Pavel Kovalev: A Journey Through Professional Dance

Pavel "Pasha" Kovalev (Russian: Па́вел "Па́ша" Ковалёв; born on 19 January 1980) is a celebrated Russian professional Latin and ballroom dancer, widely recognized for his captivating performances and significant contributions to dance entertainment across both the United States and the United Kingdom. His career trajectory showcases a remarkable dedication to the art form, from his early training to becoming a household name on prime-time television.

Early Career and Breakthrough in the United States

Kovalev's dance journey began at the tender age of eight, a relatively common starting point for individuals pursuing a career in professional dance, allowing for years of rigorous training and skill development. In 2001, seeking broader professional opportunities and competitive avenues, he made the pivotal decision to relocate to the United States with his long-time professional dance partner, Anya Garnis. This move proved instrumental in shaping their careers, leading to their prominent appearance on the third season of the American version of So You Think You Can Dance in 2007. This highly acclaimed reality competition series provided a significant platform for the duo, showcasing their versatility and technical prowess in various dance styles. Following their competitive stint, Kovalev and Garnis continued to play an integral role in the show for eight subsequent seasons, serving either as esteemed choreographers, crafting innovative and challenging routines for the contestants, or as "All-Star" partners, mentoring and performing alongside new aspiring dancers. Their consistent presence underscored their expertise and influence within the American dance scene.

Triumph on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing

In 2011, Pavel Kovalev embarked on a new chapter in his career, moving to the United Kingdom to join the cast of the BBC's iconic celebrity dance competition, Strictly Come Dancing. This flagship BBC One programme pairs professional dancers with celebrities, training them in various ballroom and Latin routines to compete for the coveted Glitterball Trophy. Kovalev quickly established himself as a fan favourite, known for his elegant choreography, supportive teaching style, and charismatic stage presence.

• Series 9 (2011) & 10 (2012) – Runner-Up Success: His debut season saw him reach the final, finishing as runner-up with actress Chelsee Healey. He repeated this impressive feat in the following series, placing second again with singer Kimberley Walsh, a member of the popular girl group Girls Aloud. These early successes cemented his status as one of the show's most talented and consistent professionals.
• Series 12 (2014) – The Coveted Win: Kovalev achieved his ultimate goal in Series 12 when he lifted the Glitterball Trophy with his celebrity partner, beloved television presenter Caroline Flack. Their partnership was celebrated for its dynamic routines and strong emotional connection, culminating in a memorable victory.
• Series 16 (2018) – Record-Breaking Partnership: His final competitive series on the show was marked by an extraordinary partnership with American singer and Pussycat Dolls member, Ashley Roberts. Despite facing some public criticism regarding Roberts' extensive prior dance experience, and landing in the bottom two three times due to public votes, their technical ability and artistic performances were undeniable. Their partnership set two remarkable records in the show's history:
  • They hold the record for the highest average score achieved by any celebrity on the show, with an exceptional average of 36.9 out of a possible 40 points from the judges.
  • They also achieved the record for scoring the most perfect scores (40 points) – a total of five throughout the series, a testament to their exceptional precision, artistry, and the judges' recognition of their unparalleled performances.
  Despite their record-breaking achievements, they ultimately finished as runners-up in the final.

Departure and Legacy

After eight incredible years on Strictly Come Dancing, from 2011 to 2018, Pavel Kovalev announced that the 2018 series would be his last. His decision stemmed from a desire to "find a new challenge" and explore different facets of his career beyond the demanding schedule of the show. His departure marked the end of an era for many fans, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable routines, multiple final appearances, a coveted win, and a set of unbroken records that underscore his profound impact on the show and its rich history.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pavel Kovalev

When did Pavel Kovalev start dancing?

Pavel Kovalev began dancing at the age of eight, laying the foundation for his extensive professional career.

What reality dance shows has Pavel Kovalev appeared on?

Pavel Kovalev has been a prominent figure on both the American version of So You Think You Can Dance and the British Strictly Come Dancing.

Who was Pavel Kovalev's winning partner on Strictly Come Dancing?

Pavel Kovalev won the twelfth series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2014 with celebrity partner Caroline Flack.

What records does Pavel Kovalev hold on Strictly Come Dancing?

With his partner Ashley Roberts in Series 16, Pavel Kovalev holds the records for the highest average score (36.9) and the most perfect scores (five) achieved by any celebrity on Strictly Come Dancing.

Why did Pavel Kovalev leave Strictly Come Dancing?

Pavel Kovalev announced his departure from Strictly Come Dancing in 2018 after eight seasons, stating his desire to "find a new challenge."