Who Is Danny Tidwell? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Danny Tidwell was born on August 1, 1984, and tragically passed away in 2020. In 2025, this article reflects on Tidwell’s impressive contributions to dance and the lasting influence he has left on the art form. Known for his incredible technical skills, he gained fame on the television show So You Think You Can Dance, where his performances showcased his extensive training and deep passion for dance. Tidwell's journey from a young dancer to a celebrated choreographer remains an inspiration to many aspiring performers.
| Occupation | Dancers |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 1, 1984 |
| Age | 35 Years |
| Birth Place | Norfolk, Virginia, United States |
| Horoscope | Leo |
| Country | |
| Date of death | 6 March, 2020 |
| Died Place | N/A |
Popularity
Danny Tidwell's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific measurements can vary over time, Danny Tidwell was known for his athletic physique, which complemented his dance career. His height was approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm), and his weight was around 160 pounds (72 kg). Danny's training in ballet and contemporary forms contributed to his lean and muscular build, essential for the demands of professional dancing.
In his early teens, Tidwell met several outstanding young dancers, including his favorite - Rasta Thomas, and it motivated him to take his dance to a new height.
He set the goal to attend the Kirov Academy of Ballet (also known as Universal Ballet Academy) in Washington, DC and, at the age of fifteen, he was invited to study at Kirov on scholarship. It turned out to be up to that time, what he calls, "the best and the worst experience" of his life.
He began receiving high-level classical ballet training with Vladimir Djouloukhadze and Anatoli Kucheruk, at first to improve his jazz dance. However, he soon found that the difficulty of ballet was the perfect outlet for his need of a constant challenge, and switched concentrations - a late start by ballet standards.
While excelling in dance, he found the environment at Kirov demanding and isolating. As summer approached, he prepared for and participated in the Shanghai International Ballet Competition and took home a silver medal (no gold was awarded that year). However, the stress of Kirov had been too much, and he quit the school after the competition.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Danny Tidwell was known to be a private individual when it came to his personal life. As of 2025, details about his dating history are limited; it is noted that he had several close relationships throughout his life but did not publicly disclose a long-term partner. Tidwell often expressed gratitude for the support of his family, including his brother, who also pursued a career in dance, signifying the strong family ties that influenced his artistic journey.
His early childhood was turbulent, and he sometimes got into trouble. Tidwell started dancing at the age of eight in an after-school program for at-risk youth.
Local dance instructor Vicky Cooke took notice of the "little bit of a kid in a straddle, trying to reach his fingers to his toes", and after the program closed, Cooke mentioned the boy to Denise Wall. The two women decided to accept him to their studio, Denise Wall's Dance Energy, for free.
Over the next couple of years, Wall took a personal interest in Tidwell, and by the time he was ten, he was calling Wall "Mom" and her other sons (Scotty, Travis, Tyler and Shannon) his brothers.
She found out that the boy would often walk part or all of the 10 mi home after dance class, had little adult supervision outside of the studio, and, at one point, had not been registered in school for months.
He lived with his biological mother and two sisters until he was ten, before moving in with Wall; she officially took custody of Tidwell when he was twelve years old.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Danny Tidwell's estimated net worth was around $1 million. His earnings were derived from various sources, including performances, dance instruction, choreography, and participation in reality television. Tidwell’s financial success was reflective not only of his talent but of his ability to continue evolving as an artist even after the spotlight dimmed.
Career, Business, and Investments
Danny Tidwell’s career was marked by various accomplishments in the dance industry, particularly on stage and television. His notable performances on So You Think You Can Dance showcased his versatility, earning him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. After the show, he expanded his repertoire by working as a choreographer for various dance companies and productions.
Additionally, Tidwell was involved in several advisory and mentorship roles, nurturing the next generation of dancers. Though specific business investments were not publicly disclosed, his focus on developing dance workshops and training programs indicated a strong commitment to imparting his skills and passion to others.
After leaving, Tidwell got the opportunity to perform principal roles in two original shows created by Debbie Allen, including Dreams and Pearl, which he performed at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., in front of President George W. Bush.
He also had a two-month stint at the School of American Ballet, where he found both the teachers and students unaccepting and remote. In 2002, Tidwell submitted his audition tape to participate in the prestigious, quadrennial USA International Ballet Competition (USA IBC). He was invited to compete, and went on to receive the silver medal.
Unbeknownst to Tidwell, the win would launch his career.
Social Network
Danny Tidwell maintained a presence on various social media platforms during his lifetime, connecting with fans and fellow dancers alike. He often shared glimpses of his performances, behind-the-scenes moments, and personal reflections on platforms such as Instagram and Facebook. His legacy continues to resonate on social media, where fans celebrate his life and contributions to dance.
Education
Danny Tidwell received formal training in dance, which laid the foundation for his incredible career. He studied ballet, jazz, and contemporary dance, refining his skills at prestigious dance institutions. His educational background equipped him with techniques and performance skills that he would later showcase on stage and television.
Over the next two years, Tidwell dabbled in various pursuits. He performed contemporary works by choreographers Nacho Duato, Jiri Killian, William Forsythe, Kirk Peterson and Robert Hill. In 2005, Tidwell was featured as one of Dance Magazine’s 25 to Watch (appearing on the cover) and Pointe Magazine's Top 10 VIP.
He was a guest principal dancer in Ballet Lubbock's Nutcracker in December 2005. That August, Tidwell taught in the National Dance Foundation of Bermuda's International Summer Intensive program, run in partnership with American Ballet Theatre.
Continuing to work in dance education, Tidwell was on the faculty of JUMP and was invited to guest teach at many schools and studios across the country.
