Benji Schwimmer: Difference between revisions

Benji Schwimmer
Benji Schwimmer
Born	Benjiman Daniel Schwimmer; January 18, 1984 (age 40); Newport Beach, California, U.S.
Occupation(s)	Dancer, choreographer, actor
Years active	2006–present
Television	So You Think You Can Dance
Parent	Buddy Schwimmer (father)
Relatives	Lacey Schwimmer (sister); Heidi Groskreutz (cousin)
Website	Benji Schwimmer official website

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Benjiman Daniel Schwimmer (born January 18, 1984)^[1] is an American professional dancer, choreographer, actor and director. He was the winner of the second season of So You Think You Can Dance (2006) and has choreographed for both the U.S. and the international versions of the show. He is the only dancer in the world to hold World titles in solo, partner and group divisions at the same time. Schwimmer works on TV, film and stage both in front and behind camera. He was the specialties choreographer for Quentin Tarantino's "Once Upon a Time In Hollywood".

Early life

Schwimmer was born on January 18, 1984, in Newport Beach, California, and grew up in a Latter-day Saint (Mormon) household in Moreno Valley, California. He is the son of choreographer and West Coast Swing dancer Buddy Schwimmer.^[2] His mother, Laurie Schwimmer, and sister, Lacey Schwimmer, are also renowned partner and solo dancers.^[3]

He began acting at two, landing nationwide commercials for McDonalds, Pizza Hut, Power Wheels and a guest stint on Full House.

He started competing at five years old. He finished his studies early,^{[clarification needed]} and then taught dance at 17 years of age for one semester at Crafton Hills College in Yucaipa.^[4]

Schwimmer and his cousin, Heidi Groskreutz (Top 4 finalist on the same season of So You Think You Can Dance), are also U.S. Open and World Showcase Swing champions.^[5] Schwimmer put dancing on hold to serve a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) in the Mexican state of Oaxaca.^[6] He returned afterwards to the dance circuit. He founded D.E.M.A.N.D., a non-profit organization that helps the less fortunate and provides health care for dancers with HIV/AIDS and other illnesses,^[7] and was a co-owner of 5678 Dance Studio in Redlands since 2011.^[8]

Career

After his two year mission and stint on So You Think You Can Dance tours, Schwimmer reclaimed his titles as both US and World Swing Champion with a new partner, Kellese Key in 2008.^[9] He has never lost a routine competition.

Schwimmer also appeared in the independent film, Love N' Dancing, starring Amy Smart.^[10] He was the cover story in a 10-page spread in "Dancer Magazine", January 9 issue, which featured his own photography.^[11] Schwimmer also costarred in the comedy "Leading Ladies".^[12]

Paula Abdul hired Schwimmer as her creative director and choreographer for her final performance on American Idol and for her opening show for VH1's Divas:Live '09. He also danced alongside her in both performances.

Working with his father, he choreographed^[13] the short program of American figure skater Jeremy Abbott, which was first performed at the 2011 Cup of China. Benji has since choreographed for two different Winter Olympics, including Adam Rippon's "O" .

In 2018, Schwimmer announced his retirement^[14] from competing at The Open Swing Dance Champions, being the only dancer to win 14 World Titles with four different partners, never taking a loss.

Personal life

Schwimmer is gay. He came out publicly in 2012, after completing his choice of reparative therapy, struggling with his sexuality for a number of years. The catalyst for his decision was the death by suicide of two gay friends.^[15]^[16]^[17] He has since left the LDS Church^[18] and publicly criticized their policies against members of the LGBT community.^[18]

Awards

1991 US Open, Young America Div. (ages 6–11), 1st Place, partner Heidi Groskreutz
1992 "Future Stars" Champion, Sabado Gigante (TV), partner Heidi Groskreutz
1993 "Future Stars" Champion, Sabado Gigante (TV), partner Heidi Groskreutz
1994 World Swing Dance Championships Youth Division, 1st Place partner Heidi Groskreutz
1995 World Swing Dance Championships Youth Division, 1st Place partner Heidi Groskreutz
1995 US Open Swing Dance Championships, Adult Team Division, 1st Place Jump Start
1995 Feather Award "Outstanding Dancer(youth)"
1995 World Swing Dance Championships, Adult Team Division, 1st place, Jump Start
1996 World Swing Dance Championships, Youth Division, 1st Place partner Heidi Groskreutz
1996 World Swing Dance Championships, Adult Team Division, 1st Place, Jump Start
1997 Skippy Blair "Footsteps Award"
1998 Sabado Gigante's "Best Dance Couple" (multiple winner), partner Heidi Groskreutz
1999 World Swing Dance Championships, Youth Division, 1st Place partner Heidi Groskreutz
1999 World Swing Dance Championships, Team Division, 1st Place, Jump Start
2001 World Swing Dance Championships, Youth Division, 1st Place partner Heidi Groskreutz
2001 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Heidi Groskreutz^[19]
2002 USA Sing Net "Person of the Year"^[20]
2002 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Heidi Groskreutz^[21]^[22]^[23]
2005 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Heidi Groskreutz^[24]
2005 US Open Swing Dance Championships, Team Division, 1st Place Jump Start 2
2006 SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE, 1st Place, "America's Favorite Dancer", after a tally of 16 million votes for the Finale
2007 - 1st Place: World Swing Dance Championships, Classic Division; Partner: Lacey Schwimmer
2008 LAPD Jack and Jill (improv) Championships, 1st Place, partner Deborah Szekely
2008 USA Grand Nationals Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Kellese Key
2008 USA Grand Nationals Cabaret Division, 1st Place
2008 Dallas D.A.N.C.E. Cabaret Division, 1st Place
2008 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Kellese Key
2009 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Kellese Key^[25]
2010 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Torri Smith
2011 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Torri Smith^[26]
2012 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Torri Smith
2013 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Torri Smith^[27]
2014 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Torri Smith^[28]
2015 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Nicole Clonch^[29]
2016 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Nicole Clonch^[30]
2017 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Nicole Clonch^[31]
2018 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Nicole Clonch^[32]

References

^ "Benji Schwimmer". So You Think You Can Dance. Archived from the original on July 5, 2006. Retrieved March 24, 2021.
^ "Dance". Access Hollywood. Archived from the original on September 7, 2006.
^ "DanceDose - Benji Schwimmer". StarQuest. January 18, 2019. Retrieved March 25, 2021.
^ "Redlands dancer swings and becomes a star - San Bernardino County Sun". Sbsun.com. Archived from the original on March 13, 2007. Retrieved September 6, 2012.
^ "2005 Results". US Open Swing Dance Championships. Archived from the original on October 21, 2014. Retrieved March 24, 2021.
^ Hollingshead, Natalie (September 27, 2006). "LDS Week Benji dance (life main)". Daily Herald. Retrieved March 25, 2021.
^ Faber, Judy (August 17, 2006). "Schwimmer a Winner on 'Dance'". CBS News. Retrieved March 25, 2021.
^ "Buddy Schwimmer Dance holds Grand Opening". Redlands Daily Facts. March 29, 2011. Retrieved March 25, 2021.
^ "2008 Results". The Open Swing Dance Championships. Archived from the original on September 7, 2015. Retrieved March 24, 2021.
^ "Love 'N Dancing Full Cast & Crew". imdb.com. Retrieved February 11, 2015.
^ "Benji Meets World". Dancer Magazine Issue. January 11, 2009. Archived from the original on March 31, 2009. Retrieved March 24, 2021.
^ "Leading Ladies :: Official Movie Site". Leadingladiesmovie.com. Retrieved September 6, 2012.
^ "icenetwork.com: News". Web.icenetwork.com. Archived from the original on September 26, 2011. Retrieved September 6, 2012.
^ Eric B. Jacobson, Benji Schwimmer's Retirement at The Open 2018, archived from the original on December 21, 2021, retrieved December 26, 2018
^ Shana Naomi Krochmal (June 18, 2012). "Benji Schwimmer's Naked Truth". Out Magazine. Retrieved July 22, 2012.
^ Lyndsey Parker (June 4, 2012). "'SYTYCD' Champ Benji Schwimmer Comes Out as Gay in Fascinating Interview". Reality Rocks (New) - Yahoo! Music. Retrieved July 23, 2012.
^ "Mormon Dance Champion Benji Schwimmer". Mormon Stories Podcast. May 30, 2012. Retrieved July 22, 2012.
^ ^a ^b "1000-1001: Benji Schwimmer – Life After Mormonism". Mormon Stories. October 19, 2018. Retrieved January 20, 2021.
^ "2001 U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships". Streetswing.com. Retrieved September 6, 2012.
^ "2002 "Person of the Year"". USA Sing Dance Network. Retrieved March 24, 2021.
^ "US Open awards". Usopenswingdc.com. Archived from the original on May 11, 2012. Retrieved September 6, 2012.
^ "2002 list of US Open Swing Dance winners". Usopenswingdc.com. Archived from the original on August 24, 2012. Retrieved September 6, 2012.
^ "2002 U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships". Streetswing.com. Retrieved September 6, 2012.
^ "US Open Swing Dance, 2005 division winners". Usopenswingdc.com. Archived from the original on February 4, 2012. Retrieved September 6, 2012.
^ "US Open Swing Dance, 2009 division winners". Usopenswingdc.com. Archived from the original on May 26, 2012. Retrieved September 6, 2012.
^ "2011 U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships Winners". Usopenswingdc.com. Archived from the original on April 5, 2012. Retrieved September 6, 2012.
^ "2013". US Open Swing Dance Championships. Archived from the original on November 27, 2014. Retrieved March 24, 2021.
^ "2014 Results". US Open Swing Dance Championships. Archived from the original on December 3, 2014. Retrieved March 24, 2021.
^ "2015 Results". The Open Swing Dance Championships. Archived from the original on April 1, 2016. Retrieved June 9, 2016.
^ "2016 Competition Results and Videos – The US Open Swing Dance Championships". Retrieved December 26, 2018.
^ "2017 Competition Results – The US Open Swing Dance Championships". Retrieved December 26, 2018.
^ "Judge Marks and Results | Event Express Pro, LLC". eepro.com. Retrieved December 26, 2018.

External links

Benji Schwimmer at IMDb
Benji Schwimmer web site (Benji Schwimmer official web site)
5678 Dance Studios (Schwimmer family studio)
The Benji & Heidi Zone (USA Swing Dance Network)
Benji and Heidi DVDs - official website with instructional WCS videos taught by Benji Schwimmer and Heidi Groskreutz.
Benji Schwimmer photos and video clips Benji Schwimmer photos and video clips from SYTYCD TOUR
Benji Schwimmer Biographical information and an interview with Benji by USA Swing Net.
US Open awards
Video interview and dance clips on Access Hollywood
"Benji Shows Why He's Your 'Favorite Dancer'", TV Guide "Insider", August 21, 2006

Preceded by Nick Lazzarini	Winner of So You Think You Can Dance 2006	Succeeded by Sabra Johnson

[1] "Benji Schwimmer". So You Think You Can Dance. Archived from the original on July 5, 2006. Retrieved March 24, 2021.

[2] "Dance". Access Hollywood. Archived from the original on September 7, 2006.

[3] "DanceDose - Benji Schwimmer". StarQuest. January 18, 2019. Retrieved March 25, 2021.

[autogenerated1-4] "Redlands dancer swings and becomes a star - San Bernardino County Sun". Sbsun.com. Archived from the original on March 13, 2007. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[5] "2005 Results". US Open Swing Dance Championships. Archived from the original on October 21, 2014. Retrieved March 24, 2021.

[6] Hollingshead, Natalie (September 27, 2006). "LDS Week Benji dance (life main)". Daily Herald. Retrieved March 25, 2021.

[7] Faber, Judy (August 17, 2006). "Schwimmer a Winner on 'Dance'". CBS News. Retrieved March 25, 2021.

[8] "Buddy Schwimmer Dance holds Grand Opening". Redlands Daily Facts. March 29, 2011. Retrieved March 25, 2021.

[9] "2008 Results". The Open Swing Dance Championships. Archived from the original on September 7, 2015. Retrieved March 24, 2021.

[10] "Love 'N Dancing Full Cast & Crew". imdb.com. Retrieved February 11, 2015.

[11] "Benji Meets World". Dancer Magazine Issue. January 11, 2009. Archived from the original on March 31, 2009. Retrieved March 24, 2021.

[12] "Leading Ladies :: Official Movie Site". Leadingladiesmovie.com. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[13] "icenetwork.com: News". Web.icenetwork.com. Archived from the original on September 26, 2011. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[14] Eric B. Jacobson, Benji Schwimmer's Retirement at The Open 2018, archived from the original on December 21, 2021, retrieved December 26, 2018

[out-15] Shana Naomi Krochmal (June 18, 2012). "Benji Schwimmer's Naked Truth". Out Magazine. Retrieved July 22, 2012.

[16] Lyndsey Parker (June 4, 2012). "'SYTYCD' Champ Benji Schwimmer Comes Out as Gay in Fascinating Interview". Reality Rocks (New) - Yahoo! Music. Retrieved July 23, 2012.

[17] "Mormon Dance Champion Benji Schwimmer". Mormon Stories Podcast. May 30, 2012. Retrieved July 22, 2012.

[:0-18] "1000-1001: Benji Schwimmer – Life After Mormonism". Mormon Stories. October 19, 2018. Retrieved January 20, 2021.

[19] "2001 U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships". Streetswing.com. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[20] "2002 "Person of the Year"". USA Sing Dance Network. Retrieved March 24, 2021.

[21] "US Open awards". Usopenswingdc.com. Archived from the original on May 11, 2012. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[22] "2002 list of US Open Swing Dance winners". Usopenswingdc.com. Archived from the original on August 24, 2012. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[23] "2002 U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships". Streetswing.com. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[24] "US Open Swing Dance, 2005 division winners". Usopenswingdc.com. Archived from the original on February 4, 2012. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[25] "US Open Swing Dance, 2009 division winners". Usopenswingdc.com. Archived from the original on May 26, 2012. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[26] "2011 U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships Winners". Usopenswingdc.com. Archived from the original on April 5, 2012. Retrieved September 6, 2012.

[27] "2013". US Open Swing Dance Championships. Archived from the original on November 27, 2014. Retrieved March 24, 2021.

[28] "2014 Results". US Open Swing Dance Championships. Archived from the original on December 3, 2014. Retrieved March 24, 2021.

[29] "2015 Results". The Open Swing Dance Championships. Archived from the original on April 1, 2016. Retrieved June 9, 2016.

[30] "2016 Competition Results and Videos – The US Open Swing Dance Championships". Retrieved December 26, 2018.

[31] "2017 Competition Results – The US Open Swing Dance Championships". Retrieved December 26, 2018.

[32] "Judge Marks and Results | Event Express Pro, LLC". eepro.com. Retrieved December 26, 2018.

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@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
 {{short description|American dancer and choreographer}}
+{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2024}}
+{{Use American English|date=October 2023}}
 {{Infobox person
 | name               = Benji Schwimmer
@@ Line 7: / Line 10: @@
 |
 | website            = [https://www.benjiwashere.com/ Benji Schwimmer official website]
-| birth_name         = Benjamin Daniel Schwimmer
+| birth_name         = Benjiman Daniel Schwimmer
 | birth_date         = {{birth date and age|1984|1|18}}
 | birth_place        = [[Newport Beach]], [[California]], U.S.
@@ Line 18: / Line 21: @@
 }}
-'''Benjimen Daniel Schwimmer''' (born January 18, 1984)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fox.com/dance/bios/03_bschwimmer.htm |title=Benji Schwimmer |website=So You Think You Can Dance |access-date=March 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060705063445/http://www.fox.com/dance/bios/03_bschwimmer.htm |archive-date=July 5, 2006}}</ref> is an American professional dancer, choreographer, actor and director. He was the winner of the [[So You Think You Can Dance (American season 2)|second season]] of ''[[So You Think You Can Dance (US)|So You Think You Can Dance]]'' (2006) and has choreographed for both the U.S. and the international versions of the show. He is the only dancer in the world to hold World titles in solo, partner and group divisions at the same time. Schwimmer works on TV, film and stage both in front and behind camera.  He was the specialties choreographer for [[Quentin Tarantino]]'s "[[Once Upon a Time in Hollywood|Once Upon a Time In Hollywood]]".
+'''Benjiman Daniel Schwimmer''' (born January 18, 1984)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fox.com/dance/bios/03_bschwimmer.htm |title=Benji Schwimmer |website=So You Think You Can Dance |access-date=March 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060705063445/http://www.fox.com/dance/bios/03_bschwimmer.htm |archive-date=July 5, 2006}}</ref> is an American professional dancer, choreographer, actor and director. He was the winner of the [[So You Think You Can Dance (American season 2)|second season]] of ''[[So You Think You Can Dance (US)|So You Think You Can Dance]]'' (2006) and has choreographed for both the U.S. and the international versions of the show. He is the only dancer in the world to hold World titles in solo, partner and group divisions at the same time. Schwimmer works on TV, film and stage both in front and behind camera.  He was the specialties choreographer for [[Quentin Tarantino]]'s "[[Once Upon a Time in Hollywood|Once Upon a Time In Hollywood]]".
 ==Early life==
-Schwimmer was born on January 18, 1984, in [[Newport Beach, California]], and grew up in a Latter-day Saint ([[Mormon]]) household in [[Moreno Valley, California]]. He is the son of choreographer and [[West Coast Swing]] dancer [[Buddy Schwimmer]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://video.accesshollywood.com/player.html?dlid=23456 |title=Dance |website=Access Hollywood |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060907121456/http://video.accesshollywood.com/player.html?dlid=23456 |archive-date=September 7, 2006}}</ref> His mother, Laurie Schwimmer, and sister, [[Lacey Schwimmer]], are also renowned partner and solo dancers.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.starquestdance.com/dancerdose-benji-schwimmer/ |title=DanceDose - Benji Schwimmer |website=StarQuest |date=18 January 2019 |access-date=March 25, 2021}}</ref>
+Schwimmer was born on January 18, 1984, in [[Newport Beach, California]], and grew up in a Latter-day Saint ([[Mormon]]) household in [[Moreno Valley, California]]. He is the son of choreographer and [[West Coast Swing]] dancer [[Buddy Schwimmer]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://video.accesshollywood.com/player.html?dlid=23456 |title=Dance |website=Access Hollywood |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060907121456/http://video.accesshollywood.com/player.html?dlid=23456 |archive-date=September 7, 2006}}</ref> His mother, Laurie Schwimmer, and sister, [[Lacey Schwimmer]], are also renowned partner and solo dancers.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.starquestdance.com/dancerdose-benji-schwimmer/ |title=DanceDose - Benji Schwimmer |website=StarQuest |date=January 18, 2019 |access-date=March 25, 2021}}</ref>
-He began acting at two, landing nationwide commercials for [[McDonald's|McDonalds]], [[Pizza Hut]], [[Power Wheels]] and guest stint on ''[[Full House]]''.
+He began acting at two, landing nationwide commercials for [[McDonald's|McDonalds]], [[Pizza Hut]], [[Power Wheels]] and a guest stint on ''[[Full House]]''.
-He started competing at five years old. He finished his studies early,{{clarify|date=March 2013}} and then taught dance at 17 years for one semester at [[Crafton Hills College]] in [[Yucaipa]].<ref name="autogenerated1">{{cite web |url=http://www.sbsun.com/entertainment/ci_4335966 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070313100906/http://www.sbsun.com/entertainment/ci_4335966 |url-status=dead |archive-date=March 13, 2007 |title=Redlands dancer swings and becomes a star - San Bernardino County Sun |publisher=Sbsun.com |access-date=September 6, 2012}}</ref>
+He started competing at five years old. He finished his studies early,{{clarify|date=March 2013}} and then taught dance at 17 years of age for one semester at [[Crafton Hills College]] in [[Yucaipa]].<ref name="autogenerated1">{{cite web |url=http://www.sbsun.com/entertainment/ci_4335966 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070313100906/http://www.sbsun.com/entertainment/ci_4335966 |url-status=dead |archive-date=March 13, 2007 |title=Redlands dancer swings and becomes a star - San Bernardino County Sun |publisher=Sbsun.com |access-date=September 6, 2012}}</ref>
 Schwimmer and his cousin, [[Heidi Groskreutz]] (Top 4 finalist on the same season of ''So You Think You Can Dance''), are also U.S. Open and World Showcase Swing champions.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://usopenswing.com/2005_division_winners.html |website=US Open Swing Dance Championships |title=2005 Results |access-date=March 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141021225451/http://usopenswing.com/2005_division_winners.html |archive-date=October 21, 2014}}</ref> Schwimmer put dancing on hold to serve a two-year [[mormon missionary|mission]] for [[the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints]] (LDS Church) in the [[Mexico|Mexican]] state of [[Oaxaca]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.heraldextra.com/lifestyles/lds-week-benji-dance-life-main/article_47f09120-cf06-58f3-b9e0-721d5bd7a98e.html |title=LDS Week Benji dance (life main) |last=Hollingshead |first=Natalie |date=September 27, 2006 |website=Daily Herald |access-date=March 25, 2021}}</ref> He returned afterwards to the dance circuit.  He founded D.E.M.A.N.D., a non-profit organization that helps the less fortunate and provides health care for dancers with [[HIV/AIDS]] and other illnesses,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/schwimmer-a-winner-on-dance/ |title=Schwimmer a Winner on 'Dance' |last=Faber |first=Judy |date=August 17, 2006 |website=CBS News |access-date=March 25, 2021}}</ref> and was a co-owner of 5678 Dance Studio in Redlands since 2011.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.redlandsdailyfacts.com/2011/03/29/buddy-schwimmer-dance-holds-grand-opening/ |title=Buddy Schwimmer Dance holds Grand Opening |date=March 29, 2011 |website=Redlands Daily Facts |access-date=March 25, 2021}}</ref>
@@ Line 33: / Line 36: @@
 After his two year mission and stint on So You Think You Can Dance tours, Schwimmer reclaimed his titles as both US and World Swing Champion with a new partner, Kellese Key in 2008.<ref>{{cite web |title=2008 Results |access-date=March 24, 2021 |website=The Open Swing Dance Championships |url=https://usopenswing.com/2008_division_winners.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150907141529/https://usopenswing.com/2008_division_winners.html |archive-date=September 7, 2015}}</ref> He has never lost a routine competition.
-Schwimmer also appeared in the independent film, ''[[Love N' Dancing]]'', starring [[Amy Smart]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1028581/fullcredits?ref_=tt_cl_sm#cast |title=Love 'N Dancing Full Cast & Crew |publisher=imdb.com |access-date=2015-02-11}}</ref> He was the cover story in a 10-page spread in "Dancer Magazine", January 9 issue, which featured his own photography.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://danceruniverse.com/stories/issues/200901/benji_meets_world-J3/ |title=Benji Meets World |website=Dancer Magazine Issue |date=January 11, 2009 |access-date=March 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090331151043/http://danceruniverse.com/stories/issues/200901/benji_meets_world-J3/ |archive-date=March 31, 2009}}</ref> Schwimmer also costarred in the comedy "Leading Ladies".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://leadingladiesmovie.com/ |title=Leading Ladies :: Official Movie Site |publisher=Leadingladiesmovie.com |access-date=2012-09-06}}</ref>
+Schwimmer also appeared in the independent film, ''[[Love N' Dancing]]'', starring [[Amy Smart]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1028581/fullcredits?ref_=tt_cl_sm#cast |title=Love 'N Dancing Full Cast & Crew |publisher=imdb.com |access-date=February 11, 2015}}</ref> He was the cover story in a 10-page spread in "Dancer Magazine", January 9 issue, which featured his own photography.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://danceruniverse.com/stories/issues/200901/benji_meets_world-J3/ |title=Benji Meets World |website=Dancer Magazine Issue |date=January 11, 2009 |access-date=March 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090331151043/http://danceruniverse.com/stories/issues/200901/benji_meets_world-J3/ |archive-date=March 31, 2009}}</ref> Schwimmer also costarred in the comedy "Leading Ladies".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://leadingladiesmovie.com/ |title=Leading Ladies :: Official Movie Site |publisher=Leadingladiesmovie.com |access-date=September 6, 2012}}</ref>
 [[Paula Abdul]] hired Schwimmer as her creative director and choreographer for her final performance on American Idol and for her opening show for VH1's Divas:Live '09. He also danced alongside her in both performances.
-Working with his father, he choreographed<ref>{{cite web |url=http://web.icenetwork.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20110912&content_id=24581484&vkey=ice_news |title=icenetwork.com: News |publisher=Web.icenetwork.com |access-date=2012-09-06 |archive-date=2011-09-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110926234353/http://web.icenetwork.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20110912&content_id=24581484&vkey=ice_news |url-status=dead }}</ref> the short program of American figure skater [[Jeremy Abbott]], which was first performed at the [[2011 Cup of China]]. Benji has since choreographed for two different Winter Olympics, including [https://www.dancespirit.com/adam-rippon-olympic-choreography-2534061540.html Adam Rippon's "O"] .
+Working with his father, he choreographed<ref>{{cite web |url=http://web.icenetwork.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20110912&content_id=24581484&vkey=ice_news |title=icenetwork.com: News |publisher=Web.icenetwork.com |access-date=September 6, 2012 |archive-date=September 26, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110926234353/http://web.icenetwork.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20110912&content_id=24581484&vkey=ice_news |url-status=dead }}</ref> the short program of American figure skater [[Jeremy Abbott]], which was first performed at the [[2011 Cup of China]]. Benji has since choreographed for two different Winter Olympics, including [https://www.dancespirit.com/adam-rippon-olympic-choreography-2534061540.html Adam Rippon's "O"] .
-In 2018, Schwimmer announced his retirement<ref>{{Citation|last=Eric B. Jacobson|title=Benji Schwimmer's Retirement at The Open 2018|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSI0ZipIP3w |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/FSI0ZipIP3w |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|access-date=2018-12-26}}{{cbignore}}</ref> from competing at The Open Swing Dance Champions, being the only dancer to win 14 World Titles with four different partners, never taking a loss.
+In 2018, Schwimmer announced his retirement<ref>{{Citation|last=Eric B. Jacobson|title=Benji Schwimmer's Retirement at The Open 2018|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSI0ZipIP3w |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/FSI0ZipIP3w |archive-date=December 21, 2021 |url-status=live|access-date=December 26, 2018}}{{cbignore}}</ref> from competing at The Open Swing Dance Champions, being the only dancer to win 14 World Titles with four different partners, never taking a loss.
-Schwimmer is currently developing TV and film projects for 2022.
 ==Personal life==
@@ Line 50: / Line 51: @@
  | work=Out Magazine
  | author=Shana Naomi Krochmal
- | date=2012-06-18
+ | date=June 18, 2012
- | access-date=2012-07-22 }}
+ | access-date=July 22, 2012 }}
 </ref><ref>{{cite web
  | url=http://music.yahoo.com/blogs/reality-rocks/sytycd-champ-benji-schwimmer-comes-gay-fascinating-interview-223816576.html
@@ Line 57: / Line 58: @@
  | work=Reality Rocks (New) - Yahoo! Music
  | author=Lyndsey Parker
- | date=2012-06-04
+ | date=June 4, 2012
- | access-date=2012-07-23 }}
+ | access-date=July 23, 2012 }}
 </ref><ref>{{cite web
  | url=http://mormonstories.org/350-352-dance-champion-benji-schwimmer/
  | title=Mormon Dance Champion Benji Schwimmer
  | work=Mormon Stories Podcast
- | date=2012-05-30
+ | date=May 30, 2012
- | access-date=2012-07-22 }}
+ | access-date=July 22, 2012 }}
-</ref> He has since left the [[LDS Church]]<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|date=2018-10-19|title=1000-1001: Benji Schwimmer – Life After Mormonism|url=https://www.mormonstories.org/podcast/benji-schwimmer-life-after/|access-date=2021-01-20|website=Mormon Stories|language=en-US}}</ref> and publicly criticized their policies against members of the [[LGBT]] community.<ref name=":0" />
+</ref> He has since left the [[LDS Church]]<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|date=October 19, 2018|title=1000-1001: Benji Schwimmer – Life After Mormonism|url=https://www.mormonstories.org/podcast/benji-schwimmer-life-after/|access-date=January 20, 2021|website=Mormon Stories|language=en-US}}</ref> and publicly criticized their policies against members of the [[LGBT]] community.<ref name=":0" />
 ==Awards==
@@ Line 84: / Line 85: @@
 * 1999 World Swing Dance Championships, Team Division, 1st Place, Jump Start
 * 2001 World Swing Dance Championships, Youth Division, 1st Place partner Heidi Groskreutz
-* 2001 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Heidi Groskreutz<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.streetswing.com/events/results/usopen2001.htm |title=2001 U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships |publisher=Streetswing.com |access-date=2012-09-06}}</ref>
+* 2001 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Heidi Groskreutz<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.streetswing.com/events/results/usopen2001.htm |title=2001 U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships |publisher=Streetswing.com |access-date=September 6, 2012}}</ref>
 * 2002 USA Sing Net "Person of the Year"<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.usaswingnet.com/2002_POTY.htm  |title=2002 "Person of the Year" |website=USA Sing Dance Network |access-date=March 24, 2021}}</ref>
-* 2002 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Heidi Groskreutz<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.usopenswingdc.com/benjiandheidi.html |title=US Open awards |publisher=Usopenswingdc.com |access-date=2012-09-06 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120511034044/http://www.usopenswingdc.com/benjiandheidi.html |archive-date=2012-05-11 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.usopenswingdc.com/2002_division_winners.html |title=2002 list of US Open Swing Dance winners |publisher=Usopenswingdc.com |access-date=2012-09-06 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120824142503/http://www.usopenswingdc.com/2002_division_winners.html |archive-date=2012-08-24 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.streetswing.com/events/results/usopen2002.htm |title=2002 U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships |publisher=Streetswing.com |access-date=2012-09-06}}</ref>
+* 2002 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Heidi Groskreutz<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.usopenswingdc.com/benjiandheidi.html |title=US Open awards |publisher=Usopenswingdc.com |access-date=September 6, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120511034044/http://www.usopenswingdc.com/benjiandheidi.html |archive-date=May 11, 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.usopenswingdc.com/2002_division_winners.html |title=2002 list of US Open Swing Dance winners |publisher=Usopenswingdc.com |access-date=September 6, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120824142503/http://www.usopenswingdc.com/2002_division_winners.html |archive-date=August 24, 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.streetswing.com/events/results/usopen2002.htm |title=2002 U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships |publisher=Streetswing.com |access-date=September 6, 2012}}</ref>
-* 2005 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Heidi Groskreutz<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.usopenswingdc.com/2005_division_winners.html |title=US Open Swing Dance, 2005 division winners |publisher=Usopenswingdc.com |access-date=2012-09-06 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120204233859/http://www.usopenswingdc.com/2005_division_winners.html |archive-date=2012-02-04 }}</ref>
+* 2005 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Heidi Groskreutz<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.usopenswingdc.com/2005_division_winners.html |title=US Open Swing Dance, 2005 division winners |publisher=Usopenswingdc.com |access-date=September 6, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120204233859/http://www.usopenswingdc.com/2005_division_winners.html |archive-date=February 4, 2012 }}</ref>
 * 2005 US Open Swing Dance Championships, Team Division, 1st Place Jump Start 2
 * 2006 SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE, 1st Place, "America's Favorite Dancer", after a tally of 16 million votes for the Finale
@@ Line 96: / Line 97: @@
 * 2008 Dallas D.A.N.C.E. Cabaret Division, 1st Place
 * 2008 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Kellese Key
-* 2009 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Kellese Key<ref>{{cite web |url=http://usopenswingdc.com/2009_division_winners.html |title=US Open Swing Dance, 2009 division winners |publisher=Usopenswingdc.com |access-date=2012-09-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120526021558/http://usopenswingdc.com/2009_division_winners.html |archive-date=2012-05-26 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
+* 2009 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Kellese Key<ref>{{cite web |url=http://usopenswingdc.com/2009_division_winners.html |title=US Open Swing Dance, 2009 division winners |publisher=Usopenswingdc.com |access-date=September 6, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120526021558/http://usopenswingdc.com/2009_division_winners.html |archive-date=May 26, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
 * 2010 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Torri Smith
-* 2011 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Torri Smith<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.usopenswingdc.com/2011_division_winners.html |title=2011 U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships Winners |publisher=Usopenswingdc.com |access-date=2012-09-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120405095259/http://www.usopenswingdc.com/2011_division_winners.html |archive-date=2012-04-05 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
+* 2011 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Torri Smith<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.usopenswingdc.com/2011_division_winners.html |title=2011 U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships Winners |publisher=Usopenswingdc.com |access-date=September 6, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120405095259/http://www.usopenswingdc.com/2011_division_winners.html |archive-date=April 5, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
 * 2012 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Torri Smith
 * 2013 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Torri Smith<ref>{{cite web |url=http://usopenswing.com/2013_division_winners.html |title=2013 |website=US Open Swing Dance Championships |access-date=March 24, 2021 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141127192413/http://usopenswing.com/2013_division_winners.html |archive-date=November 27, 2014}}</ref>
 * 2014 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Torri Smith<ref>{{cite web |url=http://usopenswing.com/2014_division_winners.html |title=2014 Results |website=US Open Swing Dance Championships |access-date=March 24, 2021 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141203073906/http://usopenswing.com/2014_division_winners.html |archive-date=December 3, 2014}}</ref>
 * 2015 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Nicole Clonch<ref>{{cite web |url=http://usopenswing.com/2015_division_winners.html |title=2015 Results |website=The Open Swing Dance Championships |access-date=June 9, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160401114035/http://usopenswing.com/2015_division_winners.html |archive-date=April 1, 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
-*2016 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Nicole Clonch<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://usopenswing.com/2016-competition-results-and-videos/|title=2016 Competition Results and Videos – The US Open Swing Dance Championships|language=en-US|access-date=2018-12-26}}</ref>
+*2016 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Nicole Clonch<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://usopenswing.com/2016-competition-results-and-videos/|title=2016 Competition Results and Videos – The US Open Swing Dance Championships|language=en-US|access-date=December 26, 2018}}</ref>
-*2017 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Nicole Clonch<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://usopenswing.com/2017-competition-results/|title=2017 Competition Results – The US Open Swing Dance Championships|language=en-US|access-date=2018-12-26}}</ref>
+*2017 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Nicole Clonch<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://usopenswing.com/2017-competition-results/|title=2017 Competition Results – The US Open Swing Dance Championships|language=en-US|access-date=December 26, 2018}}</ref>
-*2018 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Nicole Clonch<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://eepro.com/results/theopen2018/|title=Judge Marks and Results {{!}} Event Express Pro, LLC|website=eepro.com|access-date=2018-12-26}}</ref>
+*2018 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Nicole Clonch<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://eepro.com/results/theopen2018/|title=Judge Marks and Results {{!}} Event Express Pro, LLC|website=eepro.com|access-date=December 26, 2018}}</ref>
 ==See also==
@@ Line 147: / Line 148: @@
 [[Category:So You Think You Can Dance choreographers]]
 [[Category:Gay dancers]]
-[[Category:LGBT Latter Day Saints]]
+[[Category:LGBTQ Latter Day Saints]]
-[[Category:LGBT people from California]]
+[[Category:LGBTQ people from California]]
 [[Category:So You Think You Can Dance (American TV series) contestants]]
 [[Category:21st-century American dancers]]
 [[Category:Crafton Hills College people]]
-[[Category:21st-century American LGBT people]]
+[[Category:21st-century American LGBTQ people]]

v t e So You Think You Can Dance (United States)
Seasons	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13: The Next Generation 14 15 16 17 18
Winners	Nick Lazzarini Benji Schwimmer Sabra Johnson Joshua Allen Jeanine Mason Russell Ferguson Lauren Froderman Melanie Moore Alexis Warr
Other finalists	Lindsay Arnold Alan Bersten Stephen Boss Witney Carson Dmitry Chaplin Artem Chigvintsev Sandra Colton Ashlé Dawson Lauren Gottlieb Nico Greetham Heidi Groskreutz Neil Haskell Chelsie Hightower Allison Holker Jenna Johnson Mark Kanemura Jessica King Hokuto Konishi Pasha Kovalev Janette Manrara Kathryn McCormick Jamile McGee Blake McGrath Tate McRae Heather Morris Robert Muraine Kherington Payne Dominic Sandoval Lacey Schwimmer Melinda Sullivan Danny Tidwell Snejana Urbin Travis Wall

Authority control databases
International	ISNI VIAF WorldCat
National	United States
Artists	MusicBrainz