Melanie Hooper
Melanie Hooper | |
|---|---|
| Born | Townsville, Australia |
| Occupation | Dancer |
| Known for | Dancing with the Stars (Australia), Burn the Floor |
Melanie Hooper is an accomplished Australian dancer specializing in ballroom and Latin styles, recognized for her professional appearances on Australia's Dancing with the Stars as well as her participation in the touring production of Burn the Floor.
Early life
Hooper was born in Townsville, Australia and started dancing when she was 13 years old.
Career
At the age of 21, Hooper relocated to Brisbane to further her dance ambitions. She competed extensively in Sydney and Melbourne before moving to London, England. Throughout her career, she has earned numerous titles such as UK Rising Star Professional Latin Champion, German Professional Rising Star Latin Champion, Australian Open Professional Latin Champion, and Moscow World Professional Latin Champion. In 2008, she became part of Burn the Floor, performing with the show during its Broadway run in 2009.
Hooper began her tenure on Australia's Dancing with the Stars in 2011, initially partnered with Damien Leith, with whom she secured third place. The next year, she danced alongside 80's musician Brian Mannix, advancing to week eight despite receiving lower scores. In 2013, her celebrity partner was TV host Tony Barber, who was the second contestant eliminated. Her most successful season came in 2014 when paired with AFL athlete David Rodan, achieving five perfect scores and ultimately winning the competition.
Additionally, Hooper toured the United Kingdom multiple times (2012, 2013, and 2014) as part of Brendan Cole’s Strictly Come Dancing live tours.
Personal life
In 2013, Hooper became engaged to Jarrod Tranter and they were married two years later in 2015.