Ezra Sosa: Dancing His Way into the Spotlight
Introduction
Ezra Sosa is a name that has been gaining recognition in the dance world, particularly through his appearances on Dancing with the Stars. Born in Provo, Utah, Ezra's journey from a young dancer to a professional on a national stage is a testament to his dedication, talent, and passion for the art of dance.
Early Life and Background
Birth and Family
Ezra Jochen Sosa was born on November 15, 2000, in Provo, Utah. He hails from a family with deep Latin roots; his father, Enrique Sosa, immigrated from Argentina, and his mother, Lucrecia Sosa, is from Mexico. Ezra has an older sister, Stephani Sosa, who is also a professional dancer, indicating that dance runs in the family.
Dance Beginnings
Ezra began dancing at the tender age of two. His early exposure to dance set the foundation for what would become a lifelong passion. Over the years, he honed his skills in various dance styles, including Latin ballroom, hip-hop, jazz, and ballet. His versatility and dedication to mastering different techniques have been key to his success.
Career Highlights
So You Think You Can Dance (SYTYCD)
Ezra's big break came in 2019 when he competed on Season 16 of So You Think You Can Dance. As a Latin ballroom dancer, he impressed both judges and audiences with his performances, ultimately finishing in the Top 6. His time on the show showcased his ability to adapt to various dance styles and highlighted his stage presence.
Dancing with the Stars (DWTS)
Ezra's journey continued on Dancing with the Stars, where he joined as a professional dancer in Season 33. His promotion to a pro dancer was a significant milestone, as he became the first Latin LGBTQ+ professional on the show in over a decade. In his debut season, he was partnered with Anna Delvey, and although they were eliminated in Week 2, Ezra's performance was well-received.
In Season 34, Ezra was paired with Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles. Their partnership brought a fresh dynamic to the show, combining Ezra's Latin dance expertise with Jordan's athleticism and precision.
Personal Life and Advocacy
LGBTQ+ Representation
Ezra is openly gay and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in the entertainment industry. He has spoken about the challenges he faced growing up as a gay male dancer in Utah and how joining Dancing with the Stars provided him with a platform to embrace his identity fully.
Social Media Presence
Beyond his television appearances, Ezra has cultivated a strong presence on social media platforms, particularly Instagram. With over 290,000 followers, he shares glimpses of his life, dance routines, and personal insights, connecting with fans and inspiring aspiring dancers worldwide.
Achievements and Recognition
| Year | Achievement |
|---|---|
| 2019 | Top 6 on So You Think You Can Dance |
| 2023 | Joined Dancing with the Stars as a professional dancer |
| 2024 | Promoted to pro dancer on Dancing with the Stars |
| 2025 | Partnered with Jordan Chiles on Dancing with the Stars |
Fun Facts About Ezra Sosa
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Early Start: Began dancing at the age of 2.
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Family Ties: Comes from a family of dancers; his sister is also a professional dancer.
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Cultural Heritage: Proud of his Latin roots, with parents from Argentina and Mexico.
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Social Media Savvy: Active on Instagram with over 290,000 followers.
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LGBTQ+ Advocate: Openly gay and advocates for LGBTQ+ representation in dance.
Conclusion
Ezra Sosa's journey from a young dancer in Utah to a professional on national television is an inspiring story of passion, perseverance, and authenticity. His contributions to the dance world, both on and off the stage, continue to inspire many. As he continues to evolve in his career, audiences can look forward to more captivating performances and advocacy for greater inclusivity in the arts.
