Pasha Kovalev is a Russian Professional Ballroom and Latin American dancer on Strictly Come Dancing who joined the show back in 2011.
Credit to Pasha he was the longest-serving male pro dancer, apart from Strictly veteran Anton Du Beke of course, with eight series including 4 finals under his belt. Sadly in February 2019 Pasha chose to hang up his Strictly dance shoes.
“After scoring 93 perfect tens, reaching 4 finals and lifting 1 Glitterball, it’s time for me to find a new challenge and so I’ve decided to make 2018 my finale season Strictly.
“I’ve had 8 fantastic years, full of wonderful memories, thanks to the incredible partners, professionals and myriad of behind the scenes teams who all work to make Strictly the amazing production that it is.
“The biggest thanks go to all the members of the public who’ve supported me so much over these years – I look forward to seeing you on the Strictly Pro-Tour this spring, and for many future adventures to come!”
As well as dancing on Strictly, Pasha has starred in US reality shows, ‘So You Think You Can Dance’, ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and international dance show, ‘Superstars of Dance’, plus hit Broadway and West End show, ‘Burn the Floor’.
On joining Strictly in 2011, Pasha said, “Strictly is an amazing show to be part of and I’ve wanted to be on it for quite some time. Being able to bring that beautiful form of art into everyone’s home is a dream come true!”
The 2018 series of Strictly saw Pasha partnered with former Pussycat Doll, Ashley Roberts. This couple truly smashed it on the dance floor, performing some of the most technically correct performances & truly fabulous routines of the series.
Ash & Pash were thrilled to have made it through to the 2018 Strictly Final – ‘Don’t cha wish your’ dancing partner was Pasha too?
Learn all about Pasha’s dancing career, view photos, videos & merchandise, read his latest news below
4* Weekend Breaks with the Stars of TV
Who better to teach you to dance than the professional dancers from Strictly Come Dancing? You can meet the stars, learn their steps and be captivated as they perform spectacular shows just for you.
📆 Friday 5th – Sunday 7th March 2027 📍 4* Alton Towers Resort Hotel, Staffordshire ⌛ Early Bird £659pp Dinner, Bed & Breakfast 💃 Strictly Stars confirmed – Kai Widdrington & Lauren Oakley, Julian Caillon, Aljaz Skorjanec & Janette Manrara, Giovanni Pernice, Leandro Palou & Maria Tsiatsiani, David Cockram & Rosie Ward 🛏️ Double, Twin, Triple & Themed Bedrooms available ✨ Over half the rooms already sold!
⭐ Join Strictly Come Dancing Stars Kai Widdrington & Lauren Oakley, Aljaz Skorjanec & Janette Manrara, Giovanni Pernice, Julian Caillon, British Showdance Champions David Cockram & Rosie Ward, Argentine Tango Stars Leandro Palou & Maria Tsiatsiani, plus the Tony Greenwood Big Band at the fabulous Alton Towers Resort Hotel ⭐
Amazing weekend! We were thoroughly entertained throughout. Highly recommend if you love dancing.
Teresa Doherty
2 months ago
Absolutely wonderful - can’t recommend enough!!
Hereward Gas
2 months ago
Paul Smith
2 months ago
An Unforgettable, Starry-Eyed Strictly Experience at the Celtic Manor Resort Hotel.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We came away completely starry-eyed as first-timers at the Donaheys Dancing With The Stars Weekend at the Celtic Manor Resort Hotel. An exceptional experience – incredibly well organised and it exceeded all expectations from start to finish.
The hotel was fantastic – great staff, a lovely room with a view, and a delicious variety of vegetarian options which we really appreciated.
As complete beginners, the 7 hours of dance tuition were inspiring and great fun. Learning from the Strictly professionals – Aljaž Škorjanec & Janette Manrara, Giovanni Pernice, Anton Du Beke, and Gorka Márquez & Karen Hauer – was a real highlight. They were so supportive and made everything enjoyable.
The evenings were pure glamour and glitz, with stunning professional performances. The Black Tie Ball with the Tony Greenwood 15-piece Big Band was brilliant – a perfect chance to practise what we’d learned.
Being among 400 like-minded people created such a fun, friendly atmosphere.
A truly memorable weekend – we would highly recommend it and will definitely be back!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
John Vaughan
2 months ago
My wife and I went to our 1st Donahey's Weekend in April @ Celtic Manor . We did have a preconceived idea as to how it would go but , honestly , we were simply blown away . The Hotel was magnificent . The quality of the food , service and facilities was top class . The 2 Ballrooms were superb . Getting to see the Strictly Stars up close was an incredible experience . They were each so kind , generous and patient and we had great fun learning 7 different Dances which we got to practice on the floor on Friday and Saturday evening . There are 4 levels so everyone can enjoy learning at their own standard . The people we met were fabulous and everyone mixed so well . The atmosphere was electric . Paul and his ' Dance Family ' were so lovely , approachable and helpful . Their organisation of the weekend was a fantastic ' 10 ' and the weekend flowed like an beautifully fluid Ballroom dance . We could go on and on but will finish by saying . If you love Strictly and enjoy dancing , a Donahey's Weekend MUST go on your Bucket List . You will not be disappointed . We are definately going back
John & Olive Vaughan ( Cork - Ireland )
PAUL DOWNS
2 months ago
Our first time attending a weekend of dancing with the stars. What an incredible experience.
The entire weekend was so professionally organised. The Donaheys Team are so friendly, helpful and attentive. We are complete novices with zero experience. The classes are structured into 4 categories, depending upon your experience. We were in the Red class for those learning steps for the very first time.
This worked so well. Going in with zero expectations (other than to enjoy) and leaving each class with some basic steps was really fun and fulfilling. The entire weekend was organised by people who seriously know what they’re doing!
To have your first classes ever being instructed by the likes of Aljaz and Janette, Anton, Giovanni and the wonderful Argentine Tango specialists Maria and Alejandro (who choreograph all the strictly Argentine Tango routines) was special. The British Showdance Champions, Rosie and David were a joy to watch and we really enjoyed their Foxtrot lesson. What lovely people they all are. So kind and warm.
The evening shows on Friday and Saturday evening were amazing. Intimate performances from all of the teachers and stars and some special guests from the World of dance and song!. Great entertainment. The shows were worth the fee!!
We have booked again for 2027 and we can’t wait. Would highly recommend, especially for those wanting a first dance experience or are looking to build on their basic skills and for those wanting a weekend of great entertainment.
The Celtic Manor is an amazing venue too. Loved it! Thanks to the entire Donaheys Team
Esther and Paul ❤️
Andrea Dobson
2 months ago
Huge congratulations to Paul and his fabulous team for delivering a fantastic weekend, absolutely jam packed with dance instruction, dance showcases and lots of fun. We were really looking forward to it anyway, but the whole experience completely surpassed are high expectations! Well done and thank you team Donaheys!
Martin Gerrard
2 months ago
I had been advised that I would enjoy the dance weekend but the experience exceeded any of my expectations... The hotel was wonderful, the Strictly dancers were as pleasant and helpful as they could possibly be, the organisation and timing of all the workshops was just perfect... I have already booked for next year and would recommend the dance weekends to anyone and everyone!!
Well done Donaheys!!
The Dream
2 months ago
Amazing weekend, it was our first time going and it was even better than expected, we have re booked to back next year. 💃💃💃
Wendy Rathbone
2 months ago
We had an amazing time at our first Donaheys weekend. We stayed at the Celtic Manor hotel in April 2026.
The organisation beforehand was excellent, with timely emails asking for information or confirming details. A very comprehensive email came out about a month ahead of time which dealt with all the details you need to know.
The weekend itself ran like clockwork. We had just the right amount of workshops, there was breathing space in-between, and we were never bored. There is a lot of dancing available, either in social sessions or the workshops.
All abilities are catered for in 4 separate workshops: absolute beginners up to more experienced dancers. It was lovely to see so many dancers with such a wide range of experience enjoying their dancing. We never felt judged or out of place on the dance floor or at any time.
All of the lessons were excellent and well structured. It was super exciting to be taught the cha cha by Aljaz and Janette, and the waltz by Anton. Every single Strictly star and all of the teachers were so kind, nice people and very helpful.
We have already booked for next year and strongly recommend it if you are thinking about it. The weekends do sell out!
All the Donaheys people were professional, kind and helpful and there was just a lovely vibe to the whole weekend.
Lorraine Dicker (Fred)
2 months ago
Wonderful weekend we just had at Celtic Manor with the Donaheys team
Fabulous line up of stars. Brilliant workshop on how to do certain dances. Wonderful friendly staff and guests. Had. A couple of minor issues which I want to thank Jackie and Tracy for sorting these out efficiently. Enjoyed it so much have booked for next year. Keep Dancing. 💃💃🕺💃
Richard Thompson
2 months ago
Just back from Celtic Manor. Unfortunately due to some knee surgery i wasn't able to dance. As always Paul and his team were on hand to make me as comfortable as possible. The showcases were exceptional with the youngsters quickstep routines my favourite. All stars were approachable and clearly enjoyed being part of Donaheys family. The DSI behind the scenes a very interesting addition. All booked for next year. See you all there.
Martyn Reid
2 months ago
Another wonderful action packed fun Donaheys weekend at the Celtic Manor, Newport.
Being tutored up close by the Strictly Stars and professionals in such a friendly environment was such a great experience.
Hats off to the Donaheys team too for making the whole event run so smoothly,
thanks for the memories,
Martyn & Nyree
Trudy Walmsley
2 months ago
Fabulous weekend. My first time and, with no dancing experience, I was a bit apprehensive. The weekend was really well organised, I learned far more than I expected and the accommodation was lovely. Thank you to all involved.
Hereward Gas
3 months ago
What a fantastic time we had at the De Vere Beaumont Estate Windsor, at the Donaheys dancing with the stars weekend. We had a fabulous dance lessons with the stars and in the evenings we watched the professionals incredible showcase dances. The black tie ball with a 15 piece band was fantastic. We love it so much we have already booked to return for our 4th years next year.Thank you Paul.Amy and all the Donaheys Team for all your hard work and for making it another memorable weekend.Looking forward to nest year .
Tony & Amanda
Nigel Skinner
3 months ago
Another fab-u-lous weekend of dance with Donaheys. This has been our 6th visit and it never fails to inspire us. Extremely well organised, fitting in so much in one weekend! We have already booked our 7th visit.
les williams
3 months ago
What an incredible weekend 👏
As a complete beginner (my only experience being classic Dad dancing at parties), I genuinely didn’t know what to expect but booking this was one of the best decisions we’ve made. My wife loves Strictly, I wanted to book something for a nice surprise, that she would enjoy. I found Donahey”s Online, so I booked. The professional line-up looked outstanding, and travelling from Lincolnshire to Berkshire turned out to be more than worth it.
Huge thanks to @mrantondubeke, @rosie_rw, @ellingtonlance, @leandropalou1, @maria_tsiatsiani, @pernicegiovann1, @david_and_rosie_, @michelle_tsiak, @simonearena_official, @kaiwidd and @laurenmayoakley, the level of talent was matched by the encouragement, patience and energy you brought. You made complete beginners feel comfortable and capable from the first step.
An unforgettable experience fun, welcoming, and brilliantly run. Paul, Shirley, Amy and the team should be incredibly proud of what they’ve created.
Safe to say… we’ve already booked again for 2027.
Beverley Gough
3 months ago
The Amazing Donaheys Dancing with the Stars Weekend
We have spent a fantastic weekend with Donaheys, Dancing with the Stars, at De Vere Estate Windsor
I can't speak highly enough of the entire experience!
The magnificent Donaheys Team are a highly professional Family run Team who deliver perfection every time.
It's fantastic to get up close and personal with the Strictly Stars in the dance workshops and photocalls. Truly an experience not to be missed.
And the Showcases are absolutely out of this world A-MAZ-ING! The organisation and precision of the entire weekend, coordinating the workshops for all abilities, from Beginners, and Intermediate to Advanced Dancers. This makes for an amazing experience.
The Team are extremely helpful and whatever your question, they are always on hand to help and advise.
The Donaheys Team work hard 52 weeks a year to bring Dancing with the Stars weekend to us. If you haven't been to one of these weekends, then you are in for a truly wonderful experience.
The is a 5* plus weekend in any of their resorts.
I highly recommend Donaheys dance weekends, you will fall in love with Dance, of that you can be sure!
Keeeep Dancing!
Beverley
Rosie Priestley
3 months ago
Great weekend
Jo Covey
3 months ago
THE BEST WEEKEND !! we had never attended one of these weekends before but we were not disappointed, the whole weekend exceeded our expectations. My husband and I are both in our 50’s and had never danced before ( apart from a taster at learn to dance in a day with donaheys) all the classes were amazing and such fun ( we were red band for beginners ) to be able to have classes with some of the strictly pros and other pro dancers was amazing. The showcases were brilliant and the black tie ball was fab to see everyone dressed up. All the donaheys team were fab and so helpful. Hotel was lovely just outside of Windsor and food was lovely a great choice. The whole weekend was so well organised and was great to meet other people who love dancing. We got home yesterday evening and I’m still buzzing from it. We have already booked to go again next year. I can definitely recommend this weekend and whatever your dance level you will love it !!
Roger N
3 months ago
An incredible experience. Brilliant performances from the stars. The Donahey planning and support throughout the booking and the weekend experience was exceptional. The hotel was great. Cannot thank Donaheys and their sparkling star performers enough.
Sharon Reed
3 months ago
Having joined the Donaheys team for our 3rd year at Alton Towers I can honestly say this is one of the best weekends of the year. Everyone is so happy and eager to learn and for us it is a joy to catch up with both the Donaheys team and all the other returning guests who have now become friends. My Mum and I want to thank everyone involved in creating these magical weekends. I am currently practicing at home with the fantastic online courses and can’t wait to use what I have learned on the dance floor next year!
Derek Bish
4 months ago
We had a fantastic weekend at Alton Towers hotel. From start to finish the weekend was superbly organised. All the Donaheys team are very friendly and helpful. We loved the lessons with the strictly stars, David and Rosie and Tony Bennett. The showcases were fab-u-lous!
The location is great and the hotel staff are brilliant. We have booked again for 2027 and can't wait!
Joanne Clark
4 months ago
It is always a fantastic weekend. Great to see Strictly stars up close but David and Rosie are always a highlight for me. Looking forward to next year.
Margaret Lloyd
4 months ago
10 of us had a FAB U LOUS weekend of dance and fun. Paul and the Donaheys Team are super friendly, kind and accomodating. They are all welcoming and helpful, both on the dance floor and off. The ballrooms are spacious and well planned, there is ample seating for the evenings entertainment. We learned new dances from the Stars, heard their personal stories and were blown away by their magnificent performances during their showtime.
Even thinking about them leaves me breathless!
David and Rosie were around at Practice sessions to help, their show was amazing. I love them ❤️
We ve booked for next year, choosing an alternative venue as it's nearer to travel.
Pasha Kovalev is a former US Open finalists Champion 2002 – 2006.
He started dancing at the age eight. From 2002 onwards Pasha started competing in the US with dance partner Anya Garnis.
How old is Pasha?
44 years old (born 19th January 1980)
Where is Pasha from?
Komsomolsk-on-Amur, Russia
Who was Pasha’s final celebrity partner in 2018?
In 2018 Pasha is thrilled to be partnering Pussycat Dolls singing sensation Ashley Roberts. Together they had danced some amazing routines, including on Movie Week that Dirty Dancing number with lift – truly fab-u-lous!
On joining Strictly, Ashley said, “Daisy Lowe loved it, Flacky said it was one of her favourite projects. Pixie and Laura loved it! So I’m excited to dive into my own experience.”
Is Pasha in a relationship?
Pasha has been in a relationship with wife and former Strictly partner, Rachel Riley, since 2016. Rachel & Pasha danced together on the show in 2013.
Pasha married his wife Rachel on the 28 June 2019
What are Pasha’s greatest dance achievements?
How long have you got? Pasha started dancing at eight. He competed in the Amateur Latin category in Russia with his pro partner, Anya Garnis, up until 2000. The couple moved to the US in 2001 and turned professional. From 2002 onwards they competed in the US, UK and Canada, which resulted in being US Open Finalists 2002-2006. In 2007 Pasha auditioned for season 3 of the US reality show, ‘So You Think You Can Dance’, and has since participated in all following seasons as either a choreographer or an All Star. The couple also appeared on season 6 of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ in 2008, represented Russia in the duet category on international dance show, ‘Superstars of Dance’ in 2009, and were guest choreographers for season 3 of ‘So You Think You Can Dance Australia’. Pasha also put in a guest appearance in Kimberley Walsh’s music video, ‘One Day I’ll Fly Away’ in 2013. And most recently, he’s starred in the Broadway and West End show, ‘Burn the Floor’.
Who is Pasha’s professional dance partner?
That’ll be Strictly professional dancer, Anya Garnis, who partnered actor, Patrick Robinson, in series 11.
What’s Pasha’s favourite dance?
Erm, we’re not sure. We’ll let Pasha explain, “It’s so hard to pick a favourite dance because after so many years of studying and practising dancing, you can’t help but fall in love with them all for different reasons.” We hear you.
When did Pasha join Strictly?
The much-loved Pasha joined Strictly in 2011 and quickly earned the nickname, ‘The Pashbot’. As we’ve never considered his dancing to be robotic, we assume it refers to a part of his anatomy. His big toe, maybe? Anyway, we’re pretty sure we’ve also heard Zoe Ball refer to him affectionately as ‘Pash Pots’ on ‘It Takes Two’.
Who has Pasha danced with on Strictly?
Chelsee Healey, Kimberley Walsh, Rachel Riley, Caroline Flack, Carol Kirkwood, Naga Munchetty, Chizzy Akudolu and Ashley Roberts.
Has Pasha ever won Strictly?
Yes. He made it to the final with Ashley Roberts, Chelsea Healey and Kimberley Walsh, but 2014 was his year for the big win and Caroline Flack was his partner. The couple hold the record for the most top scores of 40 and were the first to receive a perfect score for all three of their dances in the final.
Has Pasha ever had a wardrobe malfunction on Strictly?
Not directly, but his celeb partner, Chelsee Healey, had a near miss and Chizzy Akudolu definitely suffered a wardrobe mishap whilst dancing with him. Chelsee got in a right ‘two and eight’ when she thought more than her cleavage was on display. And Chizzy’s dancing was majorly impaired when she suffered the old heel caught in the hem of her dress malarkey.
Anya Garnis – Strictly Come Dancing Pro Dancer 2013
Age 38
Anya Garnis is a Russian-born Latin dancer from New York City.
Anya started dancing at the age of 10 and has reached the finals at the 2004 U.S. Open Ballroom Championship – Anya has been dancing with partner and fellow finalist Pasha Kovalev for nine years.
In 2005 Anya and Pasha Kovalev came in fifth in the American Ballroom Challenge finals. She and Pasha appeared on the sixth season of Dancing with the Stars in a results show performance, dancing to “Come On Over” by Jessica Simpson. She also performed with him on the international dance show “Superstars of Dance”, representing Russia in the duet category.
Anya has been a Contestant, Choreographer & All-Star of hit US show “So You Think You Can Dance”, Principal Performer on Broadway and West End of the show “Burn The Floor” and most recently Professional Dancer on “Dancing With The Stars” Live in Vegas with celebrity partner Joey Fatone
Anya was thrilled to be a professional dancer on the eleventh series of Strictly Come Dancing, partnering Casualty Star Patrick Robinson.
Find out more information about the BBC TV programme Strictly Come Dancing by checking out the BBC Strictly Come Dancing website www.bbc.co.uk/strictlycomedancing
Donahey’s Dance Lessons & 4* UK Weekend Breaks are not associated with the BBC.
Pasha Kovolev Tour Dates & Venues
Find out about the 2024 ‘Legends Of The Dance Floor’ tour starring Brendan Cole, James Jordan, Pasha Kovalev, Vincent Simone and Ian Waite here www.legendsofthedancefloor.com
Donahey’s Dance Lessons & 4* UK Weekend Breaks are not associated with the BBC.
Meet all the Strictly Come Dancing Professional Dancers
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