Anton Du Beke delves into ‘carnage’ Christmas Day plans as he makes rare family admission away from BBC series
BBC Strictly judge Anton Du Beke has spoken candidly about his chaotic Christmas Day plans.
The 58-year-old Strictly stalwart was speaking ahead of the legendary dance show’s festive special following its 20th anniversary celebration.
Du Beke has been a series staple since the show began in 2004, debuting as a professional dancer partnered with opera singer Lesley Garrett.
He hung up his dancing shoes and joined the judging panel in 2021 as a permanent member, where he has once again not missed an episode.
“Strictly means the world to me and so many other people. It’s changed my life,” the 58-year-old told the BBC.
Even with the excitement of the big anniversary and the looming Christmas special, Du Beke is braced for events far closer to home.
When asked about his own plans for Christmas day, he revealed his Yuletide would be “carnage”.
“I’ve got seven-year-old twins,” Du Beke explained, adding to the BBC: “It’ll be wonderful carnage though and I can’t wait.”
Du Beke shares two children, George and Henrietta, with his 47-year-old wife Hannah Summers – who he wed in 2017.
“They have such unbridled joy over the Christmas period and it’s so wonderful,” the excited dad gushed.
Regarding the family’s plans for the festive day, Du Beke admitted: “We’re very traditional when it comes to Christmas.”
Speaking to the BBC, the judge and dancer also reflected on his many years with Strictly, including performing with his “hero” Bruce Forsyth.
Du Beke’s favourite memory from Strictly’s numerous festive specials was dressing up as the Ugly Stepsisters with iconic guest politician Ann Widdicombe.
The 58-year-old judge revealed he is particularly looking forward to seeing “another Widdicombe” on the show in the form of comedian Josh Widdicombe – no relation.
He explained that nostalgia won’t affect his judging because the Christmas contestants are “absolutely fantastic this year, it’s very exciting”.
Along with Widdicombe, the celeb dancers looking to impress are presenter Vogue Williams, Gladiator Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, actress Tamzin Outhwaite, racing driver Billy Monger and drag queen Tayce.
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The contestants will be looking forward to hearing from Du Beke, who revealed he will be in a forgiving mood in terms of marking.
“I’m very generous at Christmas! I’m a bit like Father Christmas when it comes to giving 10s so I’d be surprised if I don’t give a 10,” he teased.