Anton’s Strictly Come Duetting
Chef Grimmy will only reap what he sows Launches crooning career with Alfie Boe and Overtones
Last month Nick Grimshaw told us he was harbouring secret desires to take part in – and win – Celebrity MasterChef. Now we can reveal that Gregg Wallace has given Grimmy the seal of approval to get in the telly kitchen – as long as he’s well practised in whipping up tasty feasts. Gregg tells Talk TV: “If he does it every night, he’ll be fine. There’s nowhere to hide on MasterChef. You have to have done a lot of home cooking. “It’s no good learning two or three dishes – you’ve got to be a cook. It’s got to be something you do regularly.” We’re available to sample any test runs...
After missing out on the chance to replace Len Goodman on Strictly, Anton du Beke is launching his singing career to duet with some of the biggest names in crooning.
He was one of the favourites to move from the dance floor to behind the judges’ desk before Shirley Ballas bagged the gig.
But he is waltzing his career in a different direction with the help of tenor Alfie Boe and five-piece vocal harmony kings The Overtones. The group have just recorded a version of Van Morrison’s Moondance with Anton. Band member Timmy Matley told us: “A call came in saying, ‘Anton’s going to be duetting with a few people. “‘He’s keen to work with you guys and record a classic crooner song’. I binged 13 Reasons Why on Netflix so fast – literally within two days. I thought it was amazing. The performances were really brilliant and the story was really interesting the way they approached it. I felt like I was always wanting to know more. That’s why you binge, right?
I have no idea. This industry can be quite unpredictable so I’m not setting any goals for myself. I’m enjoying it as it’s happening now. At the moment it’s really fun. I had a little look-see before my first series of Poldark started. It was so surreal. Seeing my name in the credits in the opening sequence was the best bit. It was kinda, ‘Wow, this is happening. This is so cool’. Morwenna is a brilliant role. I think she’s amazing. He has a lovely singing voice. It’s a clever idea to have him sing with some guest artists and should do really well.”
With Anton’s album due before the festive market as Strictly returns, plans are in motion to help the launch with some screen action.
Timmy added: “I’m sure they’re trying to pitch for a TV special.
“Anton doing some songs then busting out a little dance routine with one of the pros would be a real spectacular.”
Anton may pop up on their tour in December if his Strictly schedule allows.
Tickets are on sale for Christmas With The Overtones tour. Their Happy Days EP is also out now. Number of minutes in tomorrow’s Game Of Thrones – the shortest in the show’s history