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Joe Sugg
Joe Sugg
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Joseph Graham Sugg (born 8 September 1991) is an English YouTuber. In 2012, he began posting videos on the YouTube channel ThatcherJoe, which peaked at over 8 million subscribers. In 2018, he was a finalist on the sixteenth series of Strictly Come Dancing, and in 2019, he portrayed Ogie Anhorn in the West End production of Waitress. He is the younger brother of fellow YouTuber Zoe Sugg.

Key Information

Early life and ancestry

[edit]

Sugg was born in Lacock, Wiltshire, and attended The Corsham School in Corsham, Wiltshire, where he gained two A*s, an A and a B in his A-levels.[2][3] The name of his YouTube 'ThatcherJoe' channel is derived from his apprenticeship as a roof thatcher.[4] He is the younger brother of Zoe Sugg, who is also a blogger and internet personality, known on YouTube as Zoella.[5]

In a November 2021 episode of Who Do You Think You Are?, Sugg discovered that his ancestors from Jersey were working in electrical telegraphy in the early years of its development and implementation. He also found that his 7× great-grandparents were Huguenot refugees from Frênes in Normandy who fled religious persecution in France and made their way to Jersey in the mid-eighteenth century. He also discovered that another ancestor lived and worked in late 17th-century London as a jeweller and survived the Great Fire of London.[6]

Career

[edit]

YouTube

[edit]

Sugg created his 'ThatcherJoe' channel in December 2011 and reached the one-million-subscriber mark two years later.[7] His channel became known for its pranks, impressions and challenge videos, such as the Whisper challenge, which became a popular YouTube trend after Sugg created a YouTuber version of the challenge in 2014.[4][8] In January 2013, Sugg began his vlogging channel, 'ThatcherJoeVlogs', and in June 2014, he created his gaming channel, 'ThatcherJoeGames'.[9][10]

In September 2020, Sugg announced that he would be the voice of the robot R-41 in Daleks!, an animated Doctor Who series which was released on YouTube in November 2020 as part of Time Lord Victorious.[11]

In May 2022, it was revealed that Sugg had voiced the host of an animated chat show aimed at children and families called Corpse Talk, based on a series of graphic novels and comics about various historical figures, which is available on YouTube.[12]

Film and television

[edit]

Sugg had an uncredited voiceover role as a seagull in the 2015 UK version of the film The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water.[13] Also in 2015, Sugg appeared alongside Caspar Lee in the direct-to-DVD film Joe and Caspar Hit the Road, which was shown on British television channel E4 in April 2016.[14][15] A second DVD, Joe & Caspar Hit the Road USA, was released in 2016.[16] Alongside fellow YouTubers Alfie Deyes and Marcus Butler, Sugg starred in an episode of the British television show Release the Hounds, which aired in March 2017.[17]

In 2018, Sugg became the first 'social media star' to appear on Strictly Come Dancing, and he was partnered with professional dancer Dianne Buswell.[18][19] The pair reached the final and finished as runners-up.[20] Shortly after the final, the BBC announced Sugg as co-presenter of New Year Live, alongside Stacey Dooley.[21] On 22 February 2019, Sugg co-hosted The One Show on BBC One, with Alex Jones, and he was one of the hosts for the Red Nose Day telethon on the BBC on 15 March 2019.[22][23]

Sugg voiced Gus in the UK version of the film Wonder Park (2019).[24] In May 2019, he guest starred on the Cartoon Network show, The Amazing World of Gumball, as the voice of Azreal in the UK version of the episode; The Drama.[25] In July 2019, Sugg announced that he would have a cameo voiceover role in the 2019 Aardman film A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon.[26]

In March 2020, Sugg appeared as a contestant on The Great Stand Up to Cancer Bake Off, in which he fainted due to a flesh wound, but recovered to take the title of Star Baker.[27]

It was announced in August 2020 that Sugg would make his television acting debut in the fourth season of the BBC One drama The Syndicate.[28] In May 2021, it was confirmed that Sugg had joined the cast of the animated adaptation of The Amazing Maurice, which was released in December 2022.[29]

Music and stage

[edit]

Sugg was a member of the YouTube Boyband, which raised money for Comic Relief and became a viral hit.[30][31] He also featured on the 2014 single "Do They Know It's Christmas?" as part of the Band Aid 30 charity supergroup, raising money for the Ebola virus epidemic in West Africa.[32] In September 2018, Sugg collaborated with Conor Maynard and then-housemate Byron Langley to take part in a YouTube one hour song challenge and released "You Want My Sister".[33][34] In January 2020, Sugg released his solo debut single, "Say It Now".[35] In August 2021, he released his second single, "Wild Things".[36]

In August 2019, Sugg was cast as Ogie Anhorn in the musical Waitress in London's West End. He debuted in the role on 9 September 2019, and gave his final performance on 30 November 2019.[37][38]

Graphic novels and book

[edit]

Sugg created the storyline and characters for the graphic novel Username: Evie, published in 2015 by Hodder & Stoughton.[39] The writing is by Matt Whyman, with illustrations by Amrit Birdi.[40] The story is about bullied teenage schoolgirl Evie, who dreams of a place she can be herself. Her terminally ill father creates a virtual reality for her, but dies before it is completed. After he leaves her an app that allows entry, Evie is transported into a world where everything is influenced by her personality.[41] Username: Evie became the fastest-selling graphic novel in the UK since records began, selling 13,745 copies in its debut week.[42] A sequel, Username: Regenerated, was published in 2016, and the third and final graphic novel in the series, Username: Uprising, was released in 2017.[43][44]

In March 2022, Sugg announced that he had written a book called Grow, a part memoir, part practical guide about reconnecting with nature in the digital age, which was published in September 2022.[45]

Businesses

[edit]

In 2018, Sugg and Caspar Lee established a management company, Margravine (now MVE),[46] to support up-and-coming digital talent.[47]

In August 2022, it was announced that Sugg's production company Final Straw Productions had partnered with BBC Studios to develop entertainment and factual entertainment formats for audiences of all ages.[48] In 2024 Final Straw Productions released a dating show pilot on YouTube called "Date Me At My Worst", hosted by TikTok star Max Balegde.[49]

Strictly Come Dancing

[edit]

From September 2018, Sugg participated in the sixteenth series of Strictly Come Dancing, partnered with Australian dancer Dianne Buswell.[18][19] They reached the final, finishing as runners-up.[20]

Week no. Dance/song Judges' score Total Result
Horwood Bussell Ballas Tonioli
1 Jive / "Take On Me" 6 7 7 7 27 No elimination
2 Charleston / "Cotton Eye Joe" 7 8 8 8 31 Safe
3 American Smooth / "Breaking Free" 6 7 6 7 26 Safe
4 Cha-Cha-Cha / "Just Got Paid" 5 7 7 7 26 Safe
5 Waltz / "Rainbow Connection" 6 7 8 8A 29 Safe
6 Foxtrot / "Youngblood" 8 9 9 9 35 Safe
7 Paso Doble / "Pompeii" 7 9 9 9 34 Safe
8 Samba / "MMMBop" 7 8 8 9 32 Safe
9 Quickstep / "Dancing Fool" 8 10 10 10 38 Safe
10 Street and Commercial / "Jump Around" 7 8 10 10 35 Safe
11 Salsa / "Joseph Megamix" 8 9 9 10 36 Safe
12 Viennese Waltz / "This Year's Love" 6 8 7 8 29 Safe
Argentine Tango / "Red Right Hand" 6 8 8 8 30
Final Paso Doble / "Pompeii" 9 10 10 10 39 Runner-up
Showdance / "I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor" 9 10 10 10 39
Charleston / "Cotton Eye Joe" 9 9 10 10 38
Notes
^A Alfonso Ribeiro filled in for Tonioli

Strictly Come Dancing: The Live Tour! 2019

[edit]

Sugg, along with his professional dance partner Dianne Buswell, appeared in the Strictly Come Dancing Live! tour during January and February 2019.[50] The pair made Strictly Live Tour history by winning 25 shows in a row against six other couples, later becoming the overall tour winners having won 28 of the 29 shows.[51][52][53]

Couples Number of
wins[51]
Number of
2nd places
Wins%
Joe Sugg & Dianne Buswell 28 1 97%
Stacey Dooley & Aljaž Skorjanec 1 24 3%
Faye Tozer & Giovanni Pernice 0 4 0%
Ashley Roberts & Pasha Kovalev 0 0 0%
Graeme Swann & Karen Hauer 0 0 0%
Dr. Ranj Singh & Janette Manrara 0 0 0%
Lauren Steadman & AJ Pritchard 0 0 0%

Strictly Come Dancing: The Official Podcast

[edit]

In August 2019, it was announced that Sugg would be taking over as co-host of the show's official podcast, which he presented until 2023.[54]

2019 Christmas special

[edit]

On 5 November 2019, it was announced that Sugg would be participating in the 2019 Christmas special episode.[55] A week later it was revealed that he would be dancing with Dianne Buswell, as he did in series 16 of the show.[56]

Dance/song Judges' score Total Result
Horwood Mabuse Ballas Tonioli
Street and Commercial / "Sleigh Ride" 10 10 10 10 40 2nd

Personal life

[edit]

Sugg has been in a relationship with Dianne Buswell, his dance partner from Strictly Come Dancing, since late 2018.[57] The couple confirmed that they were living together in August 2019,[58] and in February 2021, they revealed that they had bought a house together.[59] In September 2025, the couple announced that they were expecting their first child, a son.[60][61]

Sugg is an ambassador for the charity Age UK.[62]

Filmography

[edit]

Film

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2015 The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water Kyle the Seagull Voice role; UK version
Joe and Caspar Hit the Road Himself
2016 Joe and Caspar Hit The Road: USA Himself
2019 Wonder Park Gus Voice role; UK version
A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon Pizza Boy Voice role
2022 The Amazing Maurice Sardines Voice role

Television

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2017 Release the Hounds Himself Contestant
2018 Strictly Come Dancing Himself Runner-up
2018–2019 New Year's Eve Fireworks Co-host With Stacey Dooley
2019 The One Show Co-host With Alex Jones; 1 episode
The Amazing World Of Gumball Azreal Voice role; UK version
Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special Himself Runner-up
2020 Would I Lie to You Himself Guest panellist[63]
The Great Stand Up to Cancer Bake Off Himself Contestant; winner
I'll Get This Himself Contestant[64]
Countryfile Himself Guest presenter[65]
Daleks! R-41 Voice role
2021 Michael McIntyre's The Wheel Himself Participant[66]
The Syndicate Sam Recurring role; 3 episodes
Who Do You Think You Are? Himself Participant[67]
2022 Richard Osman's House of Games Himself Panellist; weekly champion[68]
2023 Great British Menu Himself Guest judge[69]
The Chase: Celebrity Special Himself Contestant
2025 The Hit List Himself Contestant; winner

Stage

[edit]
Year Title Role Venue
2019 Waitress Ogie Anhorn Adelphi Theatre

Podcast

[edit]
Year Title Role
2019–2023 Strictly Come Dancing: The Official Podcast Co-presenter

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Year Nominated Award Work Result
2015 BBC Radio 1's Teen Awards Best British Vlogger Won
2016 Streamy Awards Best International YouTube Channel ThatcherJoe Nominated
2019 Global Awards Social Media Superstar Won
2020 WhatsOnStage Awards Best Supporting Actor In a Musical Waitress Nominated

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Joseph Graham Sugg (born 8 September 1991) is an English , , , and television personality best known for his vlogging channel ThatcherJoe, which he launched in 2012 and which has amassed over 7 million subscribers by featuring comedic challenges, pranks, and lifestyle content. Born in the village of in to parents Graham and Tracey Sugg, he grew up alongside his younger sister , a prominent beauty and known as Zoella, and initially pursued a career as a roof thatcher—hence his channel's name—before transitioning to online inspired by his sibling's success. Sugg attended The Corsham School in and, after moving to , built a multifaceted career that includes authoring the series Username—a trilogy comprising Evie (2015), Regenerated (2016), and Uprising (2017)—and the Grow: How nature can restore balance in a busy world (2022), which draws from his personal experiences with fame and . His accolades include the Teen Awards for Best British Vlogger in 2015 and a nomination for a Streamy Award for Best International in 2016, recognizing his early impact in the digital space. Sugg expanded into traditional media with acting roles, co-starring with fellow Caspar in the 2015 travelogue film Joe & Caspar Hit the Road: USA and voicing characters in animated projects, while also venturing into production as the founder of Productions and co-founder of the talent management firm MVE Management. In 2018, he gained mainstream prominence as the first influencer to reach the final of , partnering with professional dancer , with whom he began a relationship that same year; the couple announced in September 2025 that they are expecting their first child, a boy.

Early life

Childhood and family background

Joe Sugg was born on 8 September 1991 in the village of , , , to parents Graham Sugg, a property developer, and Tracey Sugg, a former beautician and bespoke jewelry designer. The family resided in the rural countryside, which Sugg has affectionately referred to as "The " in reference to its idyllic, pastoral setting reminiscent of the fictional landscape in J.R.R. Tolkien's works. The Sugg family maintained a close-knit environment, with Sugg growing up alongside his older sister , known online as Zoella, who later achieved parallel fame as a . Their upbringing emphasized traditional values and family bonds, including strong ties to maternal grandparents in . Sugg's ancestral background is rooted in traditional English rural and craft trades, with no notable immigrant heritage documented; his mother's side traces origins to locals, while earlier forebears included a 17th-century goldsmith who survived the and 19th-century figures involved in early telegraph communications. The family's connection to —a heritage craft involving roofing with reeds or straw—influenced Sugg's early interests, as his uncle Gary Sugg worked as a professional thatcher. At age 18, Sugg gained early exposure to the family trade through a brief in under his uncle, an experience that directly inspired his username "ThatcherJoe" when he later launched his channel in 2011. This hands-on involvement in the practical, skill-based work of rural laid a foundation for his creative and entrepreneurial pursuits.

Education and early career

Joe Sugg attended in his hometown of , , before progressing to The Corsham School, a state secondary school in nearby , where he studied from 2003 to 2010. At Corsham, Sugg pursued A-levels, achieving two A*s, an A, and a B, though he later described himself as not particularly academic during his school years. Despite his strong results, Sugg opted against pursuing formal higher education, instead focusing on practical skills aligned with his family's longstanding involvement in traditional trades. Following , Sugg undertook an in roof , a he learned on the job from his Gary Sugg, who operated a thatching business in . This hands-on training, which began during work experience in his mid-teens and continued full-time after A-levels, involved constructing and repairing thatched roofs using local materials, building Sugg's physical skills and appreciation for manual labor from ages 16 to around 20. The experience, rooted in his family's thatching heritage, provided a stable entry into the and influenced his early as a tradesman rather than a creative professional. In the early 2010s, Sugg relocated from to to explore broader opportunities beyond rural trades. Initially sharing a flat in with fellow aspiring content creator , he transitioned away from thatching while experimenting with as a . Influenced by his sister Zoe's growing online presence, Sugg began creating and editing short videos, including skateboarding stunts and prank-style clips shared on platforms like , honing his skills in through self-directed practice. These early efforts, often collaborative with family and local friends, marked the beginning of his shift toward media interests without formal training.

Professional career

YouTube and online content creation

Joe Sugg launched his main YouTube channel, ThatcherJoe, in December 2011, initially uploading comedy sketches, character impressions, and personal vlogs that showcased his eccentric humor and relatable storytelling. The channel rapidly gained traction within the burgeoning UK online creator scene, achieving one million subscribers by November 2013—a milestone celebrated in a dedicated video that highlighted his early success with prank-style content and lighthearted challenges. To diversify his output, Sugg created secondary channels soon after. In January 2013, he started ThatcherJoeVlogs, focusing on daily life updates, experiences, and glimpses into his routine, which appealed to fans seeking more intimate content. This was followed by ThatcherJoeGames in 2014, dedicated to gaming playthroughs, reviews, and humorous commentary on video games, expanding his reach into the gaming . Sugg's content evolved through signature series such as impression videos mimicking fictional characters from shows like and , alongside collaborative challenges and vlog experiments that often involved friends or themed dares. These formats, including popular prank videos and group activities, helped build a loyal audience and contributed to his channels collectively surpassing 12 million subscribers by 2025, with ThatcherJoe alone maintaining around 7.2 million as of September 2025. Throughout his career, Sugg frequently collaborated with fellow creators, including family members like his sister and peers such as and , fostering a in early UK vlogging circles known as the "Brit Crew." Post-2018, his content shifted toward lifestyle-oriented vlogs emphasizing personal growth, entrepreneurial pursuits, and passion projects, reflecting a maturation in his digital presence while reducing the frequency of high-energy pranks. As one of the UK's pioneering YouTubers, Sugg played a key role in popularizing vlogging and sketches on the platform, helping elevate the visibility of British creators during YouTube's formative era through ad and sponsorships. His early focus on authentic, entertaining videos not only established financial viability for independent creators but also influenced the collaborative, community-driven style that defined the mid-2010s UK YouTube landscape.

Television and film appearances

Joe Sugg made his debut television appearance in 2015, providing a voice role as a seagull in the UK version of the animated film The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water. That same year, he appeared as a guest on ITV's This Morning, where he discussed his career as a under the handle ThatcherJoe. These early outings marked his initial foray into mainstream broadcast media, leveraging his online popularity to secure promotional spots. Sugg continued with guest appearances on various UK daytime and panel shows throughout the mid-2010s. In 2015, he co-starred in the documentary-style film Joe and Caspar Hit the Road alongside fellow YouTuber , chronicling their comedic travels across Europe. A follow-up, Joe & Caspar Hit the Road: USA, was released in 2016. He also featured on ITV's in 2017, participating in challenges with other internet personalities and . Later, Sugg joined BBC's Would I Lie to You? as a guest panelist, sharing anecdotes from his vlogging experiences in a light-hearted format. Transitioning to more substantial roles, Sugg provided voice work for several animated projects in the late . He voiced the character Azreal in the UK dub of the The Amazing World of Gumball episode "The Drama" in 2019, and lent his voice to Gus in the UK version of that same year. In 2019, he also voiced the Pizza Boy in ' A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon. These roles highlighted his versatility in , often drawing on his youthful, relatable persona from online content. Sugg's first live-action television acting role came in 2021 with the drama , where he portrayed Sam, a young worker at a in the series' fourth season. The casting drew mixed reactions, with some criticism over his southern English accent portraying a northern character, prompting defenses from co-stars like on . Sugg himself admitted to experiencing "terrible imposter syndrome" during filming, reflecting the challenges of shifting from unscripted vlogging to professional acting amid scrutiny from both fans and critics. Despite this, audiences praised his "on point" accent and natural performance in the ensemble cast. In the 2020s, Sugg expanded his television presence with reality and guest formats focused on his expertise in digital media. He competed on the celebrity edition of in 2020, notably fainting during a challenge due to low blood sugar, which became a viral moment. In 2023, he served as a guest judge on , offering insights on culinary presentation informed by his content creation background. More recently, in 2024, Sugg appeared on ITV's Celebrity Chase, where his gameplay led to a high-stakes £201,000 head-to-head that generated significant online buzz. He also voiced the character Sardines in the 2022 animated film , further solidifying his voice acting portfolio. These appearances underscore his ongoing pivot toward diverse media roles while navigating the expectations of transitioning from online influencer to traditional entertainer.

Stage, music, and live performances

Sugg made his professional stage debut in the West End production of the musical at the , taking on the supporting role of the eccentric Ogie Anhorn from September to November 2019. In the role, he portrayed a quirky suitor known for his comedic timing and awkward charm, earning positive reception for bringing energy to the ensemble despite his lack of prior theatrical experience. Transitioning to music, Sugg released his debut solo single "Say It Now" in 2020, a pop track that marked his entry into recording as a . He followed this with his second single "Wild Things" in August 2021, continuing in the upbeat pop genre with themes of adventure and self-expression. Earlier, Sugg collaborated with fellow YouTubers in the pop group YouTube Boy Band, contributing vocals to a cover of McFly's "It's All About You" released as a charity single for in March 2014. Beyond scripted stage work, Sugg has engaged in various live performances and events, often drawing on his comedic YouTube persona. In June 2015, he appeared at in , joining creators and for an on-stage interactive game that entertained thousands of fans with improvised humor and sketches. He has also participated in charity initiatives involving live elements, such as the 2015 "Challenges For Charity" video series, where he performed comedic challenges to raise funds for various causes alongside other influencers. These appearances highlight his shift toward unscripted, audience-facing entertainment rooted in his online content style. In 2022, Sugg founded Productions in partnership with , focusing on developing original entertainment and factual formats for digital and broadcast platforms. The company has since produced projects like the 2024 YouTube dating series Date Me At My Worst, emphasizing innovative, interactive content that bridges online and potential live experiences. This venture represents his growing role in creating performative media beyond personal appearances.

Writing and publishing

Joe Sugg ventured into writing with the series Username, which he created and authored. The trilogy, published by , comprises Username: Evie (2015), illustrated by Amrit Birdi; Username: Regenerated (2016), illustrated by Birdi; and Username: Uprising (2017), illustrated by Reece P. Luke and others. The narrative centers on Evie, a socially isolated teenager who accesses a app called e.scape developed by her father, allowing her to escape real-world and explore a digital realm. Central themes include , the blurred lines between virtual and physical worlds, and familial bonds, as Evie's adventures highlight her strained relationship with her family and her quest for belonging. Sugg secured a publishing deal with Hodder & Stoughton in early 2015, following the success of his YouTube channel, which informed the series' focus on online personas. The debut volume, Username: Evie, achieved significant commercial success, selling 119,560 copies in the UK in its release year and topping the graphic novel charts as the second best-selling of all time at that point; the series as a whole has exceeded 100,000 copies sold across its installments. In addition to the Username series, Sugg contributed to children's literature through these illustrated stories aimed at young readers navigating technology and self-identity. His solo nonfiction work, Grow: How Nature Can Restore Balance in a Busy World (2022), published by Penguin, blends memoir with practical advice on digital detox and reconnecting with nature, drawing from his experiences in content creation.

Business ventures

Joe Sugg has pursued several entrepreneurial endeavors leveraging his success as a digital creator, focusing on , content production, and branded merchandise. In , he collaborated with his sister to launch the Sugg Life merchandise line, featuring apparel and accessories inspired by their personas, such as posters and clothing items with slogans like "I didn't choose the Sugg life, the Sugg life chose me." This venture marked an early foray into products tied to his online audience, with items sold through a dedicated . Additionally, during 2014-2016, Sugg monetized his channel through , including discount code promotions for various brands, which became a common revenue stream for early YouTubers. In 2018, Sugg co-founded Margravine Management (later rebranded as MVE Management in partnership with IMG) alongside fellow YouTuber , establishing a talent agency specializing in representation for digital creators and influencers. The firm provides career support, including brand partnerships and content strategy, to emerging talents in the , with expansions such as hiring a head of talent in 2024. MVE emphasizes a "creator-first" approach, helping clients navigate opportunities in and beyond. Sugg expanded into content production with the launch of Productions in 2022, backed by a partnership with to develop entertainment and factual formats suitable for both online and television audiences. The company serves as a platform for innovative ideas, including experimental shows tested on , aiming to bridge digital and traditional media. Throughout his career, Sugg has engaged in sponsorship collaborations with brands in , tech, and sectors, contributing to diversified streams. While specific investments in eco-friendly brands are not publicly detailed, his personal preferences include eco-conscious choices like sustainable vehicles.

Strictly Come Dancing

Series 16 participation

Joe Sugg was announced as a contestant for the sixteenth series of on 14 August 2018, marking his entry into the competition as a with no prior experience. During the launch show on 8 September 2018, he was paired with professional dancer , an Australian performer in her second series on the show. Sugg expressed excitement but acknowledged the challenge, stating it was "totally out of my comfort zone." Sugg and Buswell's participation began with the live shows on 22 September 2018, progressing through themed weeks including Movie Week, Halloween, , Musicals, and the semi-final. As an amateur, Sugg started with modest scores but showed steady improvement, peaking with near-perfect marks in later rounds. Their performances culminated in the final on 15 December 2018, where they earned high scores across three dances but finished as runners-up to winners and . The following table summarizes their weekly dances, songs, and scores:
WeekThemeDanceSongScore (out of 40)
1LaunchJive"Take On Me" (A-Ha)27
2-Charleston"Cotton Eyed Joe" (Rednex)31
3Movie WeekAmerican Smooth"Breaking Free" (High School Musical soundtrack)26
4-Cha Cha Cha"Just Got Paid" (Sigala)26
5-Waltz"The Rainbow Connection" (Sleeping At Last)29
6HalloweenFoxtrot"Youngblood" (5 Seconds of Summer)35
7-Paso Doble"Pompeii" (Bastille)34
8-Samba"MMMBop" (Hanson)32
9BlackpoolQuickstep"Dancin' Fool" (The Copacabana Orchestra)38
10Couple's ChoiceStreet/Commercial"Jump Around" (House of Pain)35
11MusicalsSalsa"Joseph Megamix" (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat)36
12 (Semi-final)-Viennese Waltz"This Year's Love" (David Gray)29
12 (Semi-final)-Argentine Tango"Red Right Hand" (Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds)30
13 (Final)-Charleston (Favourite)"Cotton Eye Joe" (Rednex)38
13 (Final)-Paso Doble (Judges' Choice)"Pompeii" (Bastille)39
13 (Final)-Showdance"I Bet That You Look Good on the Dancefloor" (Arctic Monkeys)39
Sugg's amateur status generated significant media buzz, with commentators noting his unexpected progress from early technical critiques—such as posture issues in week 3—to polished routines like the , which earned three 10s and was dedicated to his grandmother watching from home. Fans, including his large following, provided robust support, often trending hashtags and voicing outrage over perceived low scores, like in week 4's Cha Cha Cha. This enthusiasm helped propel them to the final, where public votes kept them competitive despite judges' preferences for other pairs. Throughout the series, Sugg demonstrated notable personal growth in dance skills, evolving from a nervous beginner admitting to physical aches after initial rehearsals to confidently executing complex lifts and characterizations, as praised by judges like for his "infectious bite" in the Halloween . Challenges included early nerves, with Sugg describing the Jive as stamina-testing, and occasional mishaps like a stair fall post-performance in week 11, though no serious injuries sidelined him. Behind the scenes, rehearsals were intensive, with Sugg crediting Buswell's patience for building his confidence amid long hours. Interactions with fellow contestants fostered camaraderie, such as group encouragement during Week, while Sugg shared vlogs offering glimpses into the grueling preparation and lighthearted moments like costume fittings causing emotional teary eyes from tightness. These insights highlighted the partnership's chemistry, contributing to their runner-up finish.

Live tour and specials

Following their partnership in the sixteenth series of , Joe Sugg and joined the ": The Live Tour! 2019," a 29-date arena production directed by judge that recreated the show's competitive format with live audience voting. The tour kicked off on 18 January 2019 at and concluded on 10 February at in , visiting major venues including , The SSE Hydro in , and Motorpoint Arena . Sugg and Buswell performed a selection of their series routines alongside new material, such as a high-energy showdance to "I Bet You Look Good on the Dance Floor" by , featuring intricate lifts and group formations adapted for the larger stage. Their Charleston to "Cotton Eye Joe" highlighted playful choreography with rapid footwork and comedic elements, while live-exclusive costume designs incorporated shimmering sequins and thematic accessories to enhance visual impact under arena lighting. The tour drew over 100,000 attendees across its run, with individual shows like the opening night in Birmingham attracting around 10,000 fans despite wintry weather. Sugg and Buswell emerged as fan favorites, winning 28 out of 29 shows through audience votes, often credited to Sugg's dedicated YouTube following. Critical reception praised the production's energy and spectacle, with The Telegraph awarding it five stars for its "tantalising extras and just a little drama," noting the couples' polished execution and the judges' lively commentary. The Stage described it as "slick and spangled," commending the seamless transitions between dances and the inclusion of reigning champion Stacey Dooley among the seven competing pairs. Despite a minor mishap on opening night when Sugg stumbled during a quick routine, pulling Buswell down, the pair recovered gracefully, adding to the tour's authentic, unscripted charm. Logistically, the tour required extensive travel across the , with the cast and crew navigating a packed of matinee and evening performances in quick succession, often moving between cities like and within days. glimpses shared by participants revealed the demands of loading elaborate sets and costumes into arenas, while fan interactions were a highlight, including post-show meet-and-greets where attendees posed for photos and collected autographs, fostering a among Strictly enthusiasts. In December 2019, Sugg and Buswell received an invitation to the Christmas special, where they performed a festive street commercial routine to "" by , incorporating holiday-themed props like sleighs and snow effects tailored for the broadcast format. The dance earned a perfect score of 40 from the judges, celebrated for its joyful synchronization and Buswell's precise that blended contemporary flair with seasonal whimsy. Following his participation in Strictly Come Dancing series 16, Joe Sugg expanded his involvement with the show through various digital and audio media projects that provided fans with exclusive access to the behind-the-scenes world of the competition. In 2019, Sugg began co-hosting : The Official alongside producer Kim Winston, offering twice-weekly episodes that featured interviews with contestants, judges, and professionals, as well as personal anecdotes and training insights from the ballroom. The , available on , ran for six seasons and concluded after the 2023 series, with the announcing its end in early 2024; it delivered an "access all areas" experience that highlighted the emotional and technical aspects of the show, with Sugg drawing from his own finalist experiences to engage listeners. Sugg also contributed spin-off YouTube content during and after his series, posting videos on his personal channel ThatcherJoe that included unseen training footage with partner , such as jive rehearsals and preparation montages, which garnered millions of views and extended the show's reach to his 8 million-plus subscribers. Complementing this, he shared social media recaps on and (now X) throughout subsequent series, offering quick commentary on performances, costume highlights, and contestant journeys, often tying back to his podcast discussions to foster fan interaction. In addition to audio and personal content, Sugg produced behind-the-scenes documentaries for platforms, including guided tours of the Strictly studio and Ballroom in 2022, where he showcased set preparations, wardrobe details, and met current cast members to demystify the production process. These short-form videos, aired on and , emphasized the collaborative effort behind the glamour, with Sugg narrating the evolution of the show's format. Post-2019, Sugg made guest appearances on Strictly-related programming, including a return performance with Buswell in the 2019 Christmas Special, where they danced a festive routine to celebrate the holiday edition. He also featured in the 2024 : 20 Fabulous Years anniversary special, reflecting on the show's impact and sharing stories from his runner-up journey during a reunion of past contestants. Through these ongoing projects, Sugg has maintained involvement with the Strictly brand via his podcast and media contributions up to 2023.

Personal life

Relationships and family

Sugg has maintained privacy regarding his early romantic relationships, with only brief public speculation linking him to singer around 2015, which did not progress further. His first widely reported romantic connection was with professional dancer , whom he met as his partner on the 2018 series of , sparking dating rumors in late October of that year amid their on-screen chemistry and off-duty sightings. The couple confirmed their relationship in February 2019 through joint posts and public appearances, including a Valentine's Day Instagram update where they expressed mutual affection. By 2019, Sugg and Buswell announced they had moved in together in , marking a significant step in their partnership, followed by the purchase of their first shared home in February 2021 and an upgrade to a property near in 2023. Over the years, their commitment deepened amid occasional engagement rumors, including speculation in March 2025 following Buswell's post appearing to show a ring, which she later clarified was not an engagement band, and further teases in September 2025 where she hinted at readiness for without confirmation. This long-term bond culminated in September 2025 when the couple announced they were expecting their first child together, a son due in early 2026. In an October 2025 interview, Sugg and Buswell revealed they had selected a "unique" name for their son, describing it as uncommon and one-of-a-kind, though they chose not to disclose the specific moniker at the time, opting instead for playful temporary nicknames like "" during the reveal. In November 2025, Buswell shared that the pregnancy was 'getting real' as they prepared for the arrival. Buswell, originally from Melbourne, Australia, has integrated her family background into their life together, sharing moments like informing her parents of the pregnancy via video call in September 2025, while the couple continues to build their family unit in their Brighton-based home.

Philanthropy and activism

Joe Sugg has been actively involved in , particularly supporting causes related to elderly isolation and children's welfare. In October 2016, he was appointed as an ambassador for , the UK's leading charity for older people, where he has advocated for reducing among the elderly through public campaigns and personal engagement. His role includes participating in events such as and volunteering initiatives to promote intergenerational connections. Sugg's commitment stems from his close relationship with his grandparents during childhood, who he credits with imparting valuable life lessons that continue to influence him. Sugg has leveraged his online platform for fundraising, notably through YouTube challenges and collaborations. In 2014, he joined the YouTube Boyband project, a supergroup of creators that produced a charity single for , contributing to viral efforts that raised significant funds for poverty alleviation. He has also appeared in telethons, including the 2020 Big Night In special for and BBC Children in Need, where he performed comedic sketches and dance segments to support vulnerable children and families amid the . These appearances helped generate millions in donations collectively for the charities involved. In support of Age UK, Sugg has undertaken physical challenges to raise awareness and funds for combating elderly isolation. In April 2025, he completed the TCS , wearing an vest to highlight the charity's work, and exceeded his £2,000 target by raising £7,061 from over 500 donors. Through such efforts, including live streams and appeals, Sugg has emphasized community support and family-inspired values.

Filmography and media credits

Film

Joe Sugg made his film debut with an uncredited voice role as part of the Seagull Crew in the UK version of the animated adventure The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water (2015), alongside fellow . In 2016, Sugg co-starred as himself in the comedic road trip documentary-style film Joe and Caspar Hit the Road: USA, chronicling his cross-country adventures with . Sugg provided voice work for two animated features in 2019. He voiced the beaver character Gus in the UK dub of , a family adventure about a girl's imaginary theme park coming to life. Later that year, he lent his voice to the Pizza Delivery Boy in A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon, a stop-motion sequel involving alien visitors on a . In 2022, Sugg voiced the character Sardines, a talking rat, in the animated fantasy , an adaptation of Terry Pratchett's about a con-artist cat and his rodent crew. Through his Final Straw Productions, launched in 2022, Sugg has taken on roles for short-form video content, though no feature films by 2025. As of November 2025, Sugg's film work remains centered on supporting voice roles in animated projects, reflecting his transition from vlogging without major leading cinematic parts.

Television

Joe Sugg first gained prominence on British television as a contestant on the sixteenth series of , which aired on from September to December 2018. Paired with professional dancer , he participated in all 14 main live weeks of the competition, performing routines including a , salsa, , and jive, before reaching the grand final where they placed second. In 2021, Sugg made his acting debut in series 4 of the drama The Syndicate, playing the role of musician Sam. Later that year, he competed on ITV's The Chase Celebrity Special, teaming with other celebrities to take on quiz master for charity. Later that year, he featured on 's Countryfile in the "Black Mountains" episode, competing in a traditional hedge-laying contest to highlight rural craftsmanship skills tied to his family background in . Sugg continued making guest appearances in 2021, including as the subject of the "Joe Sugg" episode in series 18 of 's Who Do You Think You Are?, where he explored his ancestry, uncovering stories of his forebears' social mobility during the . In 2025, Sugg returned to as a contestant on The Hit List series 7, episode 12—a celebrity special aired on 7 June—where he paired with comedian and won the music guessing competition, securing the highest prize for charity.

Stage

Joe Sugg made his professional stage debut in the West End production of the musical at the , portraying the role of Ogie Anhorn from September 2019. In the role of the eccentric and lovestruck suitor, Sugg brought a comedic energy to the character, drawing on his background in performance from vlogs and television to engage audiences in this Sara Bareilles-scored show about a small-town pie-maker's life. His performance was noted for its enthusiasm, though it sparked debate about celebrity casting in theatre due to his limited prior acting experience. As of November 2025, Sugg's stage credits remain focused on productions, particularly the West End, with no Broadway appearances recorded. He has not announced or participated in additional major theatrical roles following , prioritizing other ventures in media and production.

Other media

Sugg co-hosted the : The Official alongside producer Kim Winston, providing backstage insights and gossip from the dance competition during its 2018 and 2019 seasons. The podcast, launched in conjunction with Sugg's participation as a finalist in series 16, featured weekly episodes covering rehearsals, celebrity interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories, spanning approximately 20 episodes across the two years. In 2022, Sugg founded Productions, a production company backed by , focusing on unscripted entertainment and factual formats for diverse audiences. By 2024, the company launched projects including a pilot series Date Me At My Worst, a dating show hosted by TikTok creator Max Balegde that emphasized honest interactions through interviews with participants and creators. As producer, Sugg oversaw content development aimed at blending digital innovation with traditional media appeal. From 2013 to 2015, Sugg produced the web series ThatcherJoe Challenges on his YouTube channel, featuring a collection of videos where he attempted physical and comedic feats, such as the Dizzy Challenge and Big Mouth Challenge, often collaborating with fellow creators like Caspar Lee and Oli White. These episodes, part of his broader ThatcherJoe content, garnered millions of views by showcasing pranks, impressions, and endurance tests in an engaging, lighthearted format. As of 2025, Sugg has no credited radio appearances or productions.

Awards and nominations

Wins

Joe Sugg has received recognition for his digital content creation, particularly in vlogging and social media influence, with wins centered on his YouTube work. By 2025, he had secured two notable victories in these areas, with no major awards in film or television.
YearAwardCategoryMedium
2015BBC Radio 1's Teen AwardsBest British VloggerDigital Media
2019Global AwardsSocial Media SuperstarSocial Media

Nominations

Joe Sugg has received nominations for his work in digital content creation and theatre, recognizing his contributions to YouTube vlogging and stage performances. In 2016, he was nominated for the Streamy Award in the Best International category for his YouTube channel ThatcherJoe, highlighting his growing international influence as a vlogger. In the theatre realm, Sugg earned a nomination at the 2020 WhatsOnStage Awards for Best Supporting Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of Ogie Babock in the West End production of Waitress. This recognition came alongside other prominent performers and underscored his transition from online content to professional acting. These nominations reflect Sugg's versatility across media, though he did not secure wins in these categories. By 2025, his accolades primarily centered on digital and fields, with a focus on innovative and .

References

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