Anton Du Beke is a judge on Strictly Come Dancing (Image: BBC)
Affectionately known as the “King of Ballroom”, stalwart judge has firmly danced his way into the nation’s heart. The esteemed 58-year-old professional, noted for his unwavering charm and poise, has been a fixture on the show since its inception in 2004.
However, the star’s life hasn’t always been so glamorous. Leaving school at 16, Anton dedicated every moment and penny to dance, even taking on odd jobs like working in a bakery and dishwashing to fund his passion.
“I’ve had tough times,” he confessed. “You’re never sure whether you’re doing the right thing. You’ve got no money, no proper job. I invested everything in becoming a dancer.”
Reflecting on the early days of his career, Anton shared: “I’d see Shirley Ballas and Len Goodman at various dance competitions or in practice studios. There we were, beavering away to make the revolution happen.”
Before his rise to fame on , Anton danced with Erin Boag, a New Zealand-born professional partner of 27 years. Despite their success in major contests, both thought their stint on the ballroom show would only last one series.
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Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton with fellow judges Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood (Image: BBC)
Reminiscing about the first series of the show, Anton said, “To be able to dance on television on a Saturday night was something I never thought we’d be able to do. It was a dream really and the dream continues.”
Fast forward twenty years, Anton is now a key member of the judging panel, alongside , Motsi Mabuse and Shirley Ballas. His new role came about when LA-based Bruno Tonioli had to miss the 2021 series due to -19 travel restrictions.
Anton stepped in, and the position became permanent the following year. While the star relishes his role as a judge, he does occasionally yearn for the thrill of the dance floor.
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Although he never bagged the coveted glitterball trophy, Anton and EastEnders actress Emma Barton came tantalisingly close to victory in 2019, when they emerged as runners-up (Image: BBC)
“I watch some of the pros do the numbers and get a bit of dance envy, thinking I wish I could be a part of that,” he confessed. “But judging is so much easier on the knees.”
He added: “The show has evolved unrecognisably, but has remained true to itself. I’m so proud that Craig, Tess and I are the ones left from the very beginning.
“That makes me enormously proud and I hope we all stay until the end of time. I think they’re brilliant.”