We have to start with the legend herself: Ann Widdecombe. In 2010, the former politician became a national treasure, not for her footwork, but for her sheer, unapologetic presence. Anton wrapped her in a rhumba, a paso doble, and a whole lot of wit, proving that attitude beats technique every time.
Then came the glorious partnership with Judy Murray in 2014. Tennis mum, national treasure, and a woman who famously admitted she had “no rhythm.” Anton didn’t just teach her to dance; he gave her permission to have fun with it. Their quickstep? A masterstroke in turning a lack of skill into pure entertainment.
Of course, we can’t forget Nancy Dell’Olio in 2012, or Katie Derham in 2015. With Nancy, it was all drama and feathers; with Katie, it was elegance and a surprise trip to the final. Each partner wasn’t a project—they were a character in Anton’s ongoing show of life.
What Anton’s Partners Taught Us About Style and Grit
Practical tip number one: Embrace your own “duffer” status. Anton’s partners rarely arrived as dancers, but they left with a glow. The secret? They focused on presence—standing tall, smiling, and owning the floor. You can do this in your own life, whether you’re giving a presentation or walking into a party.
Another takeaway: Dress for the dance, not the distance. Anton’s ladies always wore stunning, sequined gowns that hid a multitude of missteps. In daily life, that translates to wearing what makes you feel powerful—a bold lip, a sharp blazer, or a pair of shoes that say “I’m here to enjoy this.”
Strictly Come Dancing: Anton du Beke and partner Katie Derham start
There’s also a cultural nod to The King’s Speech here. Remember the scene where the king learns to speak by swearing? Anton’s partnerships were a ballroom version of that: using humor and humanity to overcome a perceived weakness. Vulnerability becomes a strength when you let someone guide you.
