Ashley Banjo is a prominent English dancer, choreographer, and television personality, best known as the leader of the street dance troupe Diversity. The group gained national fame after winning the third series of Britain’s Got Talent in 2009, where they captivated audiences with their innovative performances. Following their victory, Diversity performed for Queen Elizabeth at the Royal Variety Show and received accolades including a nomination at the South Bank Show awards and a Pride of Britain Award, solidifying their status in the dance community.
In addition to his role with Diversity, Ashley has made significant contributions to television as a judge on various dance competition shows. He served as a judge on Sky1’s Got to Dance for five series, showcasing his expertise and passion for dance. His judging career continued with roles on Dance Dance Dance and Dancing on Ice, where he has been a key figure since 2018. His ability to inspire and mentor aspiring dancers has made him a respected figure in the industry.
Ashley has also ventured into choreography, notably creating the Limitless tour for Diversity in 2013, which was met with critical acclaim. His commitment to dance extends beyond performance; in 2021, he collaborated with brands like Persil and Sky Nature to produce short films focused on environmental action, demonstrating his dedication to social causes.
In 2023, Ashley expanded his artistic repertoire by taking on the role of the Tin Woodman in the West End revival of The Wizard of Oz, showcasing his versatility as a performer. His contributions to dance and television were recognized when he was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2022 for services to dance, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.