The duo first met in 1997 when Sheffield-born Darren was introduced to Russian dancer Lilia. Just five months later, they clinched the International and British amateur Youth Championships.

Fifty-four-year-old Darren Bennett was found guilty of disorderly conduct after court documents said Bennett called a police officer with the Tonganoxie Police Department on April 14, 2023.

Darren Bennett and Lilia Kopylova have been popular regulars on Strictly Come Dancing since Series 2 (October–December 2004). They’ve wowed us with their steamy Latin allure, he a compact groover, she ...