Dean Stewart grew up with 10 siblings in Hither Green and described it as having a football team without subs.

He is now a star in Magic Mike Live, Channing Tatum’s sell-out show which is currently playing in London’s Hippodrome Casino.

"My family say I’ve gone from Hither Green catching the 181 bus to being on the big TV," Dean laughed to News Shopper.

News Shopper:

The TV reference relates to the 2017 Champions League final, when dancer Dean performed in Cardiff's Millennium Stadium with the Black Eyed Peas.

The 26-year-old described the pre-match ceremony as his first big break.

His mum spotted his talent when he was just six-years-old, when Dean would replicate the dance moves of Usher and Michael Jackson.

Starting dance at a club in Brixton when he was 10 eventually led him to the Hippodrome, where he is now performing in the male stripper musical.

"I’m very happy," he said. "It is nice to know I am worthy of such big opportunities."

Dean was given the raunchy gig while living out in Los Angeles.

The show, inspired by the Magic Mike films, was first performed in London in November last year.

News Shopper:

Dean offered the following advice to people thinking of booking tickets.

"Come with no intentions. Have a blank mind. We create some memorable moments and you will leave happy.

"It embraces life and enjoyment and having a good time. It is a show to have a good time and a laugh and be around your people."

He urged youngsters in south-east London to "chase the dream and not the competition" and said his success proves that hard work does pay off.