May 13th: Today’s Feature

May

Jordan Mayowa Banjo, born on December 31, 1992, is a renowned British street dancer who has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry. He gained widespread recognition as a member of the highly acclaimed dance troupe Diversity, which emerged victorious in the third series of Britain's Got Talent. Jordan's exceptional talent and captivating performances have solidified his position as one of the most talented dancers in the industry.

Brothers in Dance

Notably, Jordan Banjo shares a special bond with his brother Ashley Banjo, who is also choreographer and founder member of Diversity. Their shared passion for dance has not only strengthened their relationship but has also contributed to their success as performers. Prior to the formation of Diversity in 2007, Jordan, along with fellow Diversity members Sam Craske and Warren Russell, showcased their skills as members of Swift Moves Juniors. This early experience laid the foundation for their future accomplishments as part of Diversity.

Together with his brother Ashley, the street dance group amazed audiences and emerged victorious in the third season of Britain’s Got Talent in 2009, captivating an estimated 17 million viewers. This triumph marked the beginning of Diversity's rise to fame, leading them to perform for royalty at the Royal Variety Performance, showcase their talent for the Prime Minister outside 10 Downing Street, and participate in the closing ceremony of the Invictus Games in 2014.

Diversity & Career

Over the years, Diversity has achieved remarkable success, selling out tours, hosting their own television specials, and embarking on various high-profile engagements. In September 2019, the group embarked on their 10-year Anniversary Tour, Born Ready, which saw them travel across the UK for an extensive 40-date tour, showcasing their exceptional dance skills and captivating audiences nationwide.

Jordan and his fellow Diversity star, Perri Kiely, took on a new role in August 2020 as the hosts of the KISS Breakfast Show. Since then, their incredible chemistry and captivating hosting abilities have captivated audiences, establishing them as exceptionally talented presenters. The reception from viewers has been overwhelmingly positive, cementing their status as a fun, dynamic duo who know how to entertain and connect with their listeners.

Jordan, known for his fun-loving and engaging demeanour, has entertained millions of viewers through his hosting roles on prestigious shows such as the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, Dancing on Ice, Got to Dance, and The Greatest Dancer. Furthermore, he co-hosted Nickelodeon’s popular Slimefest in November 2019 alongside his fellow Diversity member, Perri Kiely.

Family

Jordan's personal life also saw a joyous milestone in July 2019 when he and his girlfriend Naomi Courts welcomed their second child, a daughter named Mayowa Angel, affectionately known as Mimi, into their loving family. Since then, the joyful pair has tied the knot and celebrated the arrival of their third baby, named Atreus Funso Banjo, who has now joined their family.

Political Backlash to 2020 Dance Routine

Following Diversity's impactful 2020 performance on Britain’s got Talent, Ofcom received an overwhelming number of complaints, exceeding 30,000 in total. The group faced severe backlash, with racist and violent threats directed towards its members on various social media platforms. The media reported on the disturbing nature of these threats, highlighting the toxic environment that emerged in the aftermath of the performance.

Jordan Banjo, who was residing in the house with his wife and young children at the time, recounted the frightening incidents that led to their decision to move. He described an unsettling experience where cement was thrown at his car, prompting him to prioritise his family's safety and well-being. Ultimately, due to the ongoing threats and discomfort, Jordan made the difficult choice to relocate with his family to ensure their security and peace of mind.

There were instances when Jordan had to confront trespassers on the fields located behind his property, leading to multiple calls to the authorities for assistance. In contrast, he highlighted the more severe criticism faced by his sibling, Ashley, who bore the brunt of the backlash from the televised dance routine. The challenges they encountered in dealing with intruders and the subsequent repercussions shed light on the difficulties they faced in maintaining security and order on their premises.

Triumph over haters & Continued Success

The Banjo brothers and their dance group, Diversity, have not only faced racist criticisms but have also received overwhelming approval and support from the community at large. This support has served as a significant source of encouragement for them, highlighting their resilience and the unity they share as siblings. Despite the challenges they have encountered, the brothers have managed to thrive and continue their remarkable work.

The Banjo brothers' ability to captivate audiences with their dance routines and their exceptional storytelling skills has garnered them immense admiration. People are drawn to their performances because they recognise the power of their narratives. The brothers have become a symbol of inspiration, and individuals aspire to be a part of their positive journey.

Jordan Banjo is not just a loving and caring family man, but also a beacon of positivity and joy. His heart is filled with compassion and his infectious sense of fun radiates to everyone around him, no matter where he is. Witnessing his growth, both in terms of his character and talent, has been an absolute delight for his many fans who have watched him continue to shine brighter during the progression of his amazing career.