Emmerdale actor Lewis Cope and West End performer Rachel Lopez have reportedly ended their eight-year relationship. They parted ways quietly during the summer of 2026. The couple shared their lives publicly before Cope appeared on Strictly Come Dancing. They chose to separate after nearly a decade together.
A Quiet End to a Long-Term Relationship
According to reports from The Sun, 31-year-old Lewis Cope and Rachel Lopez called time on their romance. They spent close to eight years as a couple. The pair had previously been open about their relationship. They often shared glimpses of their life together on social media prior to Cope’s high-profile stint on the BBC dance competition series in 2025.
Insiders close to the former couple indicated that the split was handled privately. A source revealed to the publication, “It seems that things really are over between Lewis and Rachel.” The source pointed out that the separation took place quietly over the summer months.
From Strictly Come Dancing to New Beginnings
Lewis Cope gained widespread household recognition for his role in the ITV soap opera Emmerdale. His profile expanded further when he joined the celebrity lineup for Strictly Come Dancing in 2025. He was partnered with professional dancer Katya Jones on the show.
During his time on the BBC show, Cope performed impressively. He made it deep into the competition before being eliminated during the quarter-finals. His exit followed a tightly contested dance-off against fellow contestants Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin. Lopez was a supportive presence throughout his journey on the show. Because of this, their subsequent split came as a surprise to many followers who had watched their long-term journey unfold.
Life After the Separation
Both individuals are now navigating this new chapter. Neither Cope nor Lopez has released an official public statement addressing the details of the breakup. This keeps in line with the private nature of their separation. Fans of the actor and the West End performer have flooded social media with supportive messages. Both stars are now focusing on their respective careers in television and theatre.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lewis Cope and Rachel Lopez
Who is Lewis Cope?
Lewis Cope is a British actor best known for his role in the ITV soap opera Emmerdale and for competing in the 2025 series of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing.
Who is Rachel Lopez?
Rachel Lopez is a talented West End performer and dancer who built a long-term relationship with Lewis Cope.
How long were Lewis Cope and Rachel Lopez together?
The couple spent approximately eight years together before deciding to part ways during the summer of 2026.
When did they split up?
According to reports published by The Sun, Lewis and Rachel quietly ended their relationship during the summer of 2026.
Did they release a public statement regarding the breakup?
No official public statement has been released by either party. Sources indicate they chose to handle the separation privately.
