Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke has revealed that he can spot when a dancing duo has had a 'very difficult' week even before they reach the dance floor. The 59-year-old, who became a permanent judge in 2021, shared the insights with Yours Magazine, noting that certain behaviours give the game away.
Du Beke, who spent 17 years as a professional dancer on the show, said he can tell by the routine how rehearsals went. He also pointed out a physical clue: 'If they start at the top of the stairs and walk down, they've had a very difficult one! They are wasting as much time as they can until they get on the dance floor.'
Reflecting on his most memorable partnerships, Du Beke singled out former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe. He described their time together as a 'wonderful moment' and praised her willingness to step out of her comfort zone. 'Dancing with Ann gave me another string to my bow. I could do humour in the choreography, it was brilliant for me,' he said.
Despite never winning the Glitterball trophy, Du Beke remains a beloved figure on the show. He quipped about his partners: 'I say this in the nicest way, but none of them are 25. Because they can't dance, even when they are good, it is awful.'
Meanwhile, the current series continues with eight couples competing for the trophy. This weekend, they will perform at the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom, with the next elimination looming after Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey became the latest celebrity to leave.
