Let's Dance 2026: Contestants Reveal Striking Transformations and Personal Stories

As the 19th season of RTL's "Let's Dance" kicks off, contestants are stepping into the spotlight not only with their dance moves but also with remarkable personal transformations and compelling backgrounds. Fitness influencer Willi Banner, 31, underwent surgery to lengthen his left pinky finger due to a congenital defect. The procedure, inspired by seeing similar treatments on social media, involved cutting the bone and using a fixator to stabilize and gradually extend the finger. Banner, fully engaged in training, views dancing as a new challenge contrasting his fitness and boxing background.

Meanwhile, host Victoria Swarovski surprised fans by debuting a bold new brunette look, departing from her signature blonde hair for the first time. The change, linked to a Garnier campaign with her mother, was initially shocking to her but soon embraced, with positive reactions from her partner Mark Mateschitz and friends.

The contestant lineup also includes notable figures such as German-French rapper Milano, whose music blends French and German rap influences and who gained viral fame in 2024. Established entertainer Ross Antony, known for his Schlager music success and long-term relationship with opera singer Paul Reeves, returns to showcase his versatility. Actress Esther Schweins, recognized for her comedic work since the 1990s and profound life experiences including surviving the 2004 tsunami, is also set to make her "Let's Dance" comeback.

These diverse stories illustrate how the contestants have prepared both physically and emotionally for the competition, adding rich layers of personality and motivation beyond the dance floor.