Anton marches on to Strictly final
...but can he swing it at last?
HE’S been a staple on the show since the beginning, and a firm favourite with the audience and his succession of partners.
And now, after 15 years of waiting, Anton du Beke at last has a shot at winning Strictly Come Dancing.
The veteran professional, 53, whirled his way to the final last night with dance partner EastEnders actress Emma Barton.
It is only the third time Du Beke has made it to the final, after finishing third in the first series with classical singer Lesley Garrett and fourth in 2015 with BBC Proms presenter Katie Derham.
After performing the waltz in Saturday’s semi-final, Du Beke choked up as he told presenter Claudia Winkleman: ‘To produce a dance – I’m getting emotional – like that, that I’ve been wanting to do for about 15 years on Strictly, is the most beautiful thing.’
But it was home time for comedian Chris Ramsey and partner and Karen Hauer last night after their energetic rumba failed to win them a spot in the final.
The judges voted unanimously to save TV host Karim Zeroual and Amy Dowden in the dance-off.
The pair will join Du Beke and Miss Barton, 42, in next week’s final along with favourites Kelvin Fletcher and Oti Mabuse.
Emmerdale star Fletcher had an emotional weekend, fighting back tears after being awarded a perfect score for the first time this series.
Speaking after being voted out last night, Ramsey said: ‘Wow, I am very proud of myself. I never ever thought I would make it past week two. I’ve got to thank Karen, she is just amazing and is so patient it’s crazy. She is awesome.’