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{{short description|American dancer and choreographer}}
{{short description|American dancer and choreographer}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2024}}
{{Use American English|date=October 2023}}

{{Infobox person
{{Infobox person
| name = Benji Schwimmer
| name = Benji Schwimmer
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|
|
| website = [https://www.benjiwashere.com/ Benji Schwimmer official website]
| 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_date = {{birth date and age|1984|1|18}}
| birth_place = [[Newport Beach]], [[California]], U.S.
| birth_place = [[Newport Beach]], [[California]], U.S.
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}}
}}


'''Benjamin Daniel Schwimmer''' (born January 18, 1984)<ref>[http://www.fox.com/dance/bios/03_bschwimmer.htm Schwimmer's profile at Fox website] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060705063445/http://www.fox.com/dance/bios/03_bschwimmer.htm |date=July 5, 2006 }}</ref> is an [[United States|American]] professional dancer, choreographer and Creative Director. He was the winner of the 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 co-starred in the 2010 film ''Leading Ladies''.
'''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==
==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>[http://video.accesshollywood.com/player.html?dlid=23456 Video] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060907121456/http://video.accesshollywood.com/player.html?dlid=23456 |date=September 7, 2006 }} of July 2006 [[Access Hollywood]] segment</ref> His mother, Laurie Schwimmer, and sister, [[Lacey Schwimmer]], are also west-coast swing dancers.{{citation needed|date=March 2013}}
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 a guest stint on ''[[Full House]]''.
⚫
He started competing when he was five years old. Some of his early experiences included singing and dancing in "Sunshine Magic", a children's troupe.{{citation needed|date=March 2013}} He attended high school in both [[Moreno Valley, California|Moreno Valley]] (Valley View) and [[Redlands, California|Redlands]] but then transferred to independent study{{clarify|date=March 2013}} because of his pursuit of dance. He finished his studies early,{{clarify|date=March 2013}} and then taught dance 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=2007-03-13 |title=Redlands dancer swings and becomes a star - San Bernardino County Sun |publisher=Sbsun.com |access-date=2012-09-06 }}</ref>


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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>
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Schwimmer and his cousin, [[Heidi Groskreutz]], (the fourth finalist on the same season of ''So You Think You Can Dance''), are also U.S. Open Showcase Swing champions in west coast swing category.<ref>See the Showcase section: https://web.archive.org/web/20141021225451/http://usopenswing.com/2005_division_winners.html</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]].{{citation needed|date=March 2013}} 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, and is a co-owner of 5678 Dance Studio in Redlands.{{citation needed|date=March 2013}}

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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>


==Career==
==Career==


In 2008, Schwimmer reclaimed his titles as both US and World Swing Champion with a new partner, Kellese Key.<ref>2008 US Open Showcase Winners: https://usopenswing.com/2008_division_winners.html {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150907141529/https://usopenswing.com/2008_division_winners.html |date=September 7, 2015 }}</ref>
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>[http://danceruniverse.com/stories/issues/200901/benji_meets_world-J3/ "Benji Meets World", Dancer Magazine Issue January 2009] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090331151043/http://danceruniverse.com/stories/issues/200901/benji_meets_world-J3/ |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.
[[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}}</ref> the short program of American figure skater [[Jeremy Abbott]], which was first performed at the [[2011 Cup of China]].
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|access-date=2018-12-26}}</ref> from competing at The Open Swing Dance Championships (formerly known as the U.S. Open).
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.


==Personal life==
==Personal life==


Schwimmer is [[openly gay]]. He [[Coming out|came out]] publicly in 2012, after struggling with his sexuality for a number of years. The catalyst for his decision was the death by suicide of three gay friends.<ref name="out">{{cite news
Schwimmer is [[gay]]. He [[Coming out|came out]] publicly in 2012, after completing his choice of [[Conversion therapy|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.<ref name="out">{{cite news
| url=http://www.out.com/news-commentary/2012/06/18/benji-schwimmer-naked-truth-sytycd-gay-mormon-sexuality
| url=http://www.out.com/news-commentary/2012/06/18/benji-schwimmer-naked-truth-sytycd-gay-mormon-sexuality
| title=Benji Schwimmer's Naked Truth
| title=Benji Schwimmer's Naked Truth
| work=Out Magazine
| work=Out Magazine
| author=Shana Naomi Krochmal
| 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
</ref><ref>{{cite web
| url=http://music.yahoo.com/blogs/reality-rocks/sytycd-champ-benji-schwimmer-comes-gay-fascinating-interview-223816576.html
| url=http://music.yahoo.com/blogs/reality-rocks/sytycd-champ-benji-schwimmer-comes-gay-fascinating-interview-223816576.html
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| work=Reality Rocks (New) - Yahoo! Music
| work=Reality Rocks (New) - Yahoo! Music
| author=Lyndsey Parker
| 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
</ref><ref>{{cite web
| url=http://mormonstories.org/350-352-dance-champion-benji-schwimmer/
| url=http://mormonstories.org/350-352-dance-champion-benji-schwimmer/
| title=Mormon Dance Champion Benji Schwimmer
| title=Mormon Dance Champion Benji Schwimmer
| work=Mormon Stories Podcast
| 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>{{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>{{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>
</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==
==Awards==
{{more citations needed|section|date=November 2018}}
{{BLP sources section|date=November 2018}}
* 1991 US Open, Young America Div. (ages 6–11), 1st Place, partner Heidi Groskreutz
* 1991 US Open, Young America Div. (ages 6–11), 1st Place, partner Heidi Groskreutz
* 1992 "Future Stars" Champion, Sabado Gigante (TV), partner Heidi Groskreutz
* 1992 "Future Stars" Champion, Sabado Gigante (TV), partner Heidi Groskreutz
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* 1999 World Swing Dance Championships, Team Division, 1st Place, Jump Start
* 1999 World Swing Dance Championships, Team Division, 1st Place, Jump Start
* 2001 World Swing Dance Championships, Youth Division, 1st Place partner Heidi Groskreutz
* 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>
*[http://www.usaswingnet.com/2002_POTY.htm 2002 USA Swing Net "Person of the Year"]
* 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
* 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
* 2006 SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE, 1st Place, "America's Favorite Dancer", after a tally of 16 million votes for the Finale
* 2007 Desert City Swing Strictly Swing, 1st Place, Partner [[Patty Vo]]
* 2007 - 1st Place: World Swing Dance Championships, Classic Division; Partner: [[Lacey Schwimmer]]
* 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 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 Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Kellese Key
* 2008 USA Grand Nationals Cabaret Division, 1st Place
* 2008 USA Grand Nationals Cabaret Division, 1st Place
* 2008 Desert City Swing Social Dancing Competition, 4th Place, Partner [[Melina Ramirez]]
* 2008 Dallas D.A.N.C.E. 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
* 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
* 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
* 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
* 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>
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* 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>
|url=http://usopenswing.com/2013_division_winners.html
⚫
* 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>
|url-status=dead
⚫
*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>
|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141127192413/http://usopenswing.com/2013_division_winners.html
⚫
*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>
|archive-date=2014-11-27
*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>
}}</ref>

* 2014 US Open Swing Dance Championship, Showcase Division, 1st Place, partner Torri Smith<ref>{{cite web
==See also==
|url=http://usopenswing.com/2014_division_winners.html
* [[List of dancers]]
|url-status=dead
|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141203073906/http://usopenswing.com/2014_division_winners.html
|archive-date=2014-12-03
}}</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=Archived copy|access-date=2016-06-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160401114035/http://usopenswing.com/2015_division_winners.html|archive-date=2016-04-01|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>
⚫
*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>
⚫
*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>


==References==
==References==
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[[Category:So You Think You Can Dance winners]]
[[Category:So You Think You Can Dance winners]]
[[Category:So You Think You Can Dance choreographers]]
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Latest revision as of 06:34, 24 September 2024

Benji Schwimmer
Portrait photograph of a man wearing a blue sweater, seated sideways with respect to the viewer
Born
Benjiman Daniel Schwimmer

(1984-01-18) January 18, 1984 (age 40)
Newport Beach, California, U.S.
Occupation(s)Dancer, choreographer, actor
Years active2006–present
TelevisionSo You Think You Can Dance
ParentBuddy Schwimmer (father)
RelativesLacey Schwimmer (sister)
Heidi Groskreutz (cousin)
WebsiteBenji Schwimmer official website

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

[edit]

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

[edit]

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

[edit]

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

[edit]
  • 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]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  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.
  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
  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.
  18. ^ a b "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.
[edit]
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