Anton Du Beke has insisted the new chaperone measures introduced by the BBC won’t detract from the quality of Strictly this year.
Speaking exclusively to GB News on the National Television Awards red carpet on Wednesday, the Strictly judge was full of optimism for the 20th-anniversary special that kicks off on Saturday.
Amanda Abbington’s complaints sparked an investigation in BBC Strictly stars’ conduct on the show
BBC
Du Beke’s own former dance partner Ann Widdecome also unleashed a blistering verdict on the chaperone measures during an interview on Channel 5’s Jeremy Vine.
She ranted: “These are adults. I’d take a very serious view of this if these were kids. These are adults. What do we mean, bullied? These are adults, what do we mean by bullying? Why didn’t they take action?”
Strictly judge Du Beke is clearly a lot more welcoming to the idea than his series eight dance partner, however, as when he was asked how he thinks the measures will affect the show, he replied: “It remains to be seen but I’m sure it’s going to be exactly the same…
“It’s going to be as wonderful as ever!” he passionately insisted before he continued his praise: “And I know that everybody is looking forward to it enormously with renewed vigour! I can’t wait.”
Anton Du Beke will return to the BBC strictly judging panel for the new series
BBC
While Du Beke couldn’t reveal too many details about Saturday’s launch, he did tell GB News: “It’s gonna be great.
“The launch show. The new series. 20th anniversary. A great line-up. What more could you want?”
He’ll be returning as a judge on the series alongside Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas and the long-serving Craig Revel Horwood.
Du Beke initially joined the judging panel to fill in for former judge Bruno Tonioli before being made his permanent replacement in 2021.
But does he ever miss being a pro? “Sometimes. Not so much anymore.
“I just love sitting there talking about the dancing, watching the show, and making the final. That’s my favorite.”
