Injury Forces Last-Minute Lineup Change for 'Let's Dance' as RTL Adjusts Plans

Just days before the premiere of the 19th season of the popular dance competition show 'Let's Dance,' a significant alteration has been made to the lineup due to an unexpected injury. The production team at RTL has confirmed that one of the professional dancers, Mikael Tatarkin, will be unable to participate in the upcoming season as a result of a biceps tendon tear, prompting urgent changes to the show's cast.

Tatarkin, who was scheduled to perform in his second consecutive season, suffered an injury that makes his participation impossible. He first appeared on the show in 2024, partnering with comedian Maria Clara Groppler. Despite their early exit in the first round, Tatarkin was later given another opportunity, stepping in for Valentin Lusin during his parental leave and reaching the semi-finals alongside Ann-Kathrin Bendixen.

With Tatarkin sidelined, the production swiftly appointed Alexandru Ionel as his replacement. Ionel, who has been a regular presence on 'Let's Dance' since 2021, achieved a fifth-place finish in the previous season with dance partner Marie Mouroum. His return to the competition was unforeseen, as initial plans for this season did not include him in the roster of professional dancers. Ionel had previously expressed his disappointment about not being selected during a podcast appearance, referencing the expanding pool of professional dancers and the challenges of being chosen each year.

The change means Ionel will now compete alongside his wife, Patricija Ionel, who is also a professional dancer on the show. This adjustment brings a new dynamic to the competition, with both spouses now set to participate in the same season. Meanwhile, some fan-favorite professional dancers will not be returning for this season, a decision attributed to the show's growing ensemble and limited spots available for each season.

RTL has emphasized the unpredictability that can arise in live television productions, citing the necessity to adapt quickly in response to unforeseen developments such as injuries. The network aims to ensure that the quality and excitement of the competition remain unaffected by these last-minute changes. As the premiere approaches, anticipation continues to build among viewers eager to see the new pairings and performances that will define the latest chapter of 'Let's Dance.'

The revised list of professional dancers has been finalized, and preparations for the launch show are proceeding as planned. The production team has expressed confidence that the transition will be smooth and that the audience can expect the same high standard of entertainment that 'Let's Dance' is known for. The upcoming season is set to feature a mix of returning contestants and new faces, promising a compelling and diverse showcase of dance talent on the RTL stage.