Anton Du Beke, 53, has been a pinnacle member of the Strictly Come Dancing family ever since the show began back in 2004. Over the past 16 years, the professional dancer has been partnered with many celebrities and almost got his hands on the Glitterball Trophy a couple of times. However, given how long he has been on the BBC dance show, many have been wondering if he will ever leave. If he were to quit or retire, one former star of the Saturday night entertainment programme has revealed what the future could hold for the icon.
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Last series, Anton was partnered with EastEnders star Emma Barton, 42, and although he received some of his best scores ever with the actress, he was beaten to the crown by fellow professional Oti Mabuse, 29, and Kelvin Fletcher, 36.
Having scored his first-ever 40 in the most recent series, claiming the Glitterball Trophy would be the only award the dancer would have to achieve to get a full house.
As he came so close to winning in December and having failed once again, viewers wondered whether this would be the end of the stalwarts journey.
The icon debunked any rumours he was quitting and has since been revealed to be a part of this year’s line-up of trained dancers.
However, if the legend were ever to decide he had given his all and wanted to hang up his shoes, then one former star has suggested he would never truly leave.
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In an exclusive interview with Express.co.uk, professional dancer Robin Windsor, 40, gave his take on Anton’s future.
The former star of the dance show appeared on the programme for four series from 2010 to 2013 and performed alongside the stalwart.
Asked if he thought the icon was going to retire anytime soon, the dancer said: “Anton’s part of the furniture of Strictly.”
Speaking of whether he would leave the team completely, Robin added: “If he decides to not have a professional dancing role on the show. I’m pretty sure that there will always be a role for him somewhere.”
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In 2009, he replaced the late Dale Winton on BBC quiz show Hole in the Wall and has had his own segments on ITV’s This Morning.
Of course, it seems Anton is in no hurry to quit this current role just yet and will certainly want to get a victory under his belt before retiring.
The Strictly veteran is certainly hoping he’ll get another chance to perform this year in light of the current coronavirus pandemic.
With many TV shows, both live and recorded, having to shut down production last month, there have been doubts whether the popular contest will go ahead.
Speaking on Channel 4 chat show The Steph Show, the performer seemed positive about still getting celebrities to sign up.
“I don’t think lockdown will make any difference to recruiting for the show. People either want to do it or they don’t.”
As things currently stand, the dance show looks set to continue as the series usually kicks off in September.
However, a spokesperson told Express.co.uk bosses are looking at “contingency plans” given the public do not know what government guidelines will be in five months time.
Strictly Come Dancing returns later this year on BBC One.