Anton Du Beke has opened up about his approach to working with celebrity partners on Strictly Come Dancing, revealing the brutal reason he never gets angry with them. The popular judge and former professional dancer shared his thoughts during a recent appearance at the Cheltenham Literature Festival, especially in light of a recent scandal involving contestants Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice.
Anton Du Beke’s Unique Perspective on Celebrity Partners
Throughout his 18 seasons as a professional dancer on Strictly, Anton partnered with numerous stars, including Patsy Palmer, Judy Murray, and Emma Barton, with whom he finished as a runner-up in 2019. Reflecting on his experiences, he acknowledged that many partners struggled with dancing skills. He humorously pointed out that it could still be quite “awful even when they had talent.”
During the discussion, he said, “Even when they are good, it is awful,” emphasizing the challenges of working with non-professionals. He added, “I said to one of my partners: ‘Are you flexible?’ They replied, ‘Yes, but I can’t do Tuesdays.’” Anton explained that he could only expect his partners to try their best, which is often all that can be asked in such a competitive environment.
Support from Former Partners Amid Controversy
This year, former contestant Laila Rouass defended Anton Du Beke, following reports suggesting that she had complained about him to the BBC. Rouass, who participated in 2009 and finished fourth, clarified her stance on Instagram. While acknowledging that Anton had used some inappropriate language, she emphasized that she does not believe he is racist or Islamophobic, stating, “If I believed he was, I would have refused to dance with him.”
Du Beke’s long-standing career on Strictly Come Dancing has seen him evolve from a professional dancer to a beloved judge, known for his charm and humor. Despite facing challenges, including misunderstandings with partners, he remains focused on enjoying the experience and bringing out the best in each contestant. His approach showcases the importance of patience and understanding in a high-pressure environment, a lesson that resonates with both fans and fellow dancers alike.
