In a stunning revelation that will surprise Strictly Come Dancing fans, Anton Du Beke has confessed he was never formally asked to become a permanent judge on the hit BBC show.
The beloved ballroom professional, who has been with Strictly since its inception in 2004, finally secured a coveted spot on the judging panel in 2021 after years as a competitor. However, the path to his promotion was far from conventional.
The Phone Call That Changed Everything
Du Beke disclosed that his transition from dance floor to judging panel happened through an informal conversation rather than a formal job offer. "They didn't actually ask me to do it," he revealed during an appearance on Kate Garraway's Life Stories.
"I had a conversation with [executive producer] Sarah James... I said 'So, what's the story with the judging then?' and she said 'Well, we'd love you to do it.' I went 'Lovely, well I'd love to do it. Okay, great. So we're all done.'"
A Long-Awaited Promotion
The popular entertainer had previously filled in as a guest judge when regular panellist Motsi Mabuse was required to isolate during the pandemic. His impressive performance during this trial period clearly made an impact on producers.
Du Beke replaced veteran judge Bruno Tonioli, who had been unable to participate due to travel restrictions between the UK and United States, where he also worked on Dancing With The Stars.
Emotional Reflections On A Remarkable Journey
The conversation with Kate Garraway became emotional as Du Beke reflected on his nearly two-decade journey with the programme. "It's the best job in the world," he stated, visibly moved.
His appointment to the judging panel marked a significant milestone in his career, transitioning from the competition floor where he had never lifted the Glitterball Trophy despite numerous attempts with various celebrity partners.
The new series of Strictly Come Dancing returns this autumn on BBC One, with Du Beke firmly established as a fixture on the judging panel alongside Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, and Motsi Mabuse.
