Television presenter and professional dog trainer Graeme Hall has made a triumphant return to the spotlight. He is competing in the current season of Strictly Come Dancing after overcoming a major health scare. Known widely as the “Dogfather” from Channel 5’s hit series Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly, the 59-year-old star recently secured 24 out of 40 points in a routine alongside professional dance partner Lauren Oakley.
Hall’s path to the BBC ballroom was far from straightforward. While he had previously enjoyed ballroom and Latin dancing as a hobby-even competing in a local charity event called Strictly Northampton in 2012-his interest was abruptly halted in 2019. At that time, he suffered a stroke caused by a hole in the heart.
Overcoming a 2019 Stroke
Following the medical emergency, doctors operated on Hall’s heart. This led to a full physical recovery. However, the ordeal left him believing his dancing days were completely behind him. He packed away his dance shoes and put his practice trousers in the loft. They remained there through three house moves.
Reflecting on his return, Hall admitted he never expected to step back onto a dance floor. “It’s a bit of a cliché, but it’s a dream come true,” Hall said. “If you’d told me in 2019 that I was going to be taking part in the show I would have dismissed you as a fantasist.”
Support from Friends and Family
As preparations and rehearsals got underway for the 2026 series, Hall found strong support from friends, family, and colleagues. Chef James Martin, who reached the Strictly semi-final in 2005, offered words of warning and encouragement. He told him, “You have no idea what you’re letting yourself in for!”
Hall’s primary personal motivation is his mother. She recently celebrated her 90th birthday and still lives in the Yorkshire bungalow where Hall was born. His parents originally met on the dancefloor in the late 1950s, specializing in the jive, waltz, and quickstep. Hall hopes to honor their memory and make his family proud throughout the competition.
Balancing Strictly with Other Passions
Outside of television and dance rehearsals, Hall maintains an active lifestyle. This includes racing a 1960s MG sports car in speed hillclimb and sprint championships. Although his rigorous Strictly schedule forced him to step back from the final rounds of his racing season, his fellow drivers have rallied behind him with encouragement.
As the competition continues on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, Hall remains focused. He wants to master the demanding choreography, learn from the professional cast, and enjoy every single moment of an experience he considers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Graeme Hall?
Graeme Hall is a British television presenter, author, and professional dog trainer best known for hosting the Channel 5 series Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly.
Why did Graeme Hall stop dancing previously?
Hall stopped dancing in 2019 after suffering a stroke caused by a hole in his heart. Following successful heart surgery and a full recovery, he recently dusted off his dancing kit to join Strictly Come Dancing.
Who is Graeme Hall’s professional dance partner on Strictly?
Graeme Hall is partnered with professional dancer Lauren Oakley on Strictly Come Dancing.
What is Graeme Hall’s connection to the show?
Apart from being a lifelong fan of the series, Hall previously competed in a local charity dance event called Strictly Northampton in 2012 before developing his hobby further in regional events.
What other television shows has Graeme Hall appeared on?
In addition to Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly, Hall has fronted The Dog Hospital, made guest appearances on ITV’s This Morning, and made a cameo in the drama All Creatures Great and Small.
