Paul Mercurio

Paul Joseph Mercurio (born 31 March 1963) is an Australian actor, dancer, TV presenter, and politician. He is best known for his lead role in the 1992 film Strictly Ballroom and as a judge on the TV series Dancing with the Stars. Mercurio began his ballet training at the age of nine and later studied at the Australian Ballet School. In 1982, at the age of 19, he became a principal dancer with the Sydney Dance Company. Mercurio has also appeared in other films and TV shows, showcasing his versatile acting skills. Since 2022, he has been a member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly, representing the electorate of Hastings.