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Love is in the air, darlings, and it’s extra magical when it’s a surprise! Our favorite Strictly Come Dancing champ, Joe McFadden, just sent hearts fluttering by announcing his engagement to his partner, artist Rob Smales. Yes, you heard it right—Joe’s off the market and could not be more thrilled. On Tuesday, September 24, the Holby City star took to Instagram to share the happy news, telling his followers that he’s engaged to his “amazing soulmate.” Cue the aww!
McFadden, who has always kept his private life tucked neatly out of the spotlight, shocked many of his fans with this unexpected reveal. After years of shying away from the tabloids and keeping things low-key when it came to his personal life, this announcement felt like a big step. And honestly? We’re so happy for him. His sweet post, punctuated with the hashtag #LoveIsLove, is exactly the kind of uplifting news we needed.
From the Dancefloor to the Wedding Aisle
Joe, as many of you will remember, twirled his way into our hearts back in 2017 when he snagged the Strictly Come Dancing crown with his incredible partner, Katya Jones. The chemistry they shared on the dancefloor was undeniable—much like the spark between Joe and Rob today! (And let’s be real, this love story is giving us serious Strictly vibes, minus the ballroom shoes.)
Since his Strictly victory, Joe’s been gracing stages and screens alike. Last year, he lent his voice to The Rocky Horror Show, and most recently, he’s been showing off his acting chops in the West End as Sam in 2:22 A Ghost Story. Now, after dazzling audiences for years, Joe is stepping into a new role—fiancé.
Congratulations Pour In
As soon as Joe and Rob dropped the engagement news on social media, the love started flooding in from all corners of their lives. Joe’s fellow Strictly alum and good friend Reverend Richard Coles was quick to chime in on X (formerly Twitter) with a big, “Woohoo! Love you, Joe.” And it didn’t stop there. TV host Laura Whitmore sent her love, filling her congratulations with a bunch of heart emojis, while Casualty star Kirsty Mitchell hilariously commented: “I bought the hat ages ago. Glorious news. Glorious couple.”
Even Joe’s 2:22 A Ghost Story cast-mate Donna Air got in on the action, sharing: “Congratulations, so happy for you both.” It seems everyone is here for Joe and Rob’s next chapter—and we’re right there with them.
+Related: Ian Waite: Strictly ‘Curse’ Not Reason for Split from Hubby
Keeping Love Private (Until Now)
Joe has always kept things pretty hush-hush when it comes to his romantic life. Though he never publicly discussed his sexuality before this engagement, he has talked about his views on privacy. When asked about his love life in a Scotsman interview a few years back, he was firm but fair, saying, “It’s not really anyone’s business… You give so much of your life to the job that I want some bits for myself.” And you know what? Fair play to him.
But now, with Rob by his side, it looks like Joe’s finally ready to share more of himself with the world. And judging by his excitement in that Instagram post, it feels like the right time.
💃 Fun Fact 💃
Did you know that Joe McFadden was the first Scottish celebrity to win Strictly Come Dancing? Adding that glitterball trophy to his resume must’ve been magical—now he’s adding wedding plans to the mix!
A Life of Art and Romance
As for the man who stole Joe’s heart, Rob Smales, he’s an artist who, much like Joe, keeps a relatively low profile. The couple has been quietly building their life together outside of the public eye, and by all accounts, they couldn’t be more perfect for each other. While we don’t know much about their love story (yet!), it’s clear they’ve found something truly special.
For someone who once joked about being “unlovable” after his Strictly win, Joe has clearly found a partner who proves otherwise. Love has a funny way of finding you when you least expect it, right?
What’s Next for Joe and Rob?
With their engagement out in the open, we can only speculate what’s next for the couple. Will it be an intimate ceremony in the Scottish Highlands? Or maybe something a little more flamboyant, knowing Joe’s flair for the dramatic? Whatever they choose, one thing’s for sure—this wedding is going to be as fabulous as they are!
So, here’s to love, surprise engagements, and the endless possibilities of what’s to come for Joe and Rob. As they’ve proven, sometimes the best love stories are the ones that take their time to unfold. Congrats to the happy couple! 🌈💍
+Related: ‘Strictly’ Star Robin Windsor Dies at 44