In a surprisingly candid revelation, Strictly Come Dancing's newest permanent judge Anton Du Beke has admitted he would happily return to the dance floor if producers asked him to swap his scoring paddle for dance shoes once more.
The beloved ballroom professional, who joined the judging panel permanently in 2021 after years as a competitor, made the unexpected confession during an exclusive interview, suggesting he hasn't entirely closed the door on his performing career.
From Dancer to Judge: Anton's Strictly Evolution
Du Beke, who holds the record for most appearances as a professional dancer on the BBC juggernaut, explained his transition from competitor to critic hasn't diminished his passion for performing.
'I absolutely adore being a judge,' the 57-year-old star insisted, 'but if they came to me and said they wanted me to dance again, I'd say 'Of course!''
His enthusiasm for both roles highlights the unique position he holds in Strictly history - having experienced the competition from every angle possible.
The Judging Experience: A New Perspective
Since joining the judging panel full-time two years ago, replacing Bruno Tonioli, Du Beke has brought his wealth of ballroom experience to the critique table alongside head judge Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, and Motsi Mabuse.
'Being a judge is completely different,' he reflected. 'When you're dancing, you're just thinking about your celebrity and your performance. As a judge, you're watching everything.'
Despite the different responsibilities, the veteran performer confessed there are moments during spectacular routines when he feels the familiar pull of the dance floor.
Strictly Future: What's Next for Anton?
While Du Beke remains committed to his judging duties, his openness to returning as a dancer demonstrates his enduring love for the art form that made him a household name.
The revelation comes as Strictly continues to dominate Saturday night television, with the latest series captivating millions of viewers weekly and generating intense speculation about future format changes and cast rotations.
Whether he remains behind the judges' desk or makes a surprise return to the dance floor, one thing is certain: Anton Du Beke's passion for Strictly Come Dancing remains as vibrant as ever.
