Ruth Langsford has opened up about her time on Strictly Come Dancing, revealing that Anton Du Beke showed a different side to his character when she 'burst into tears' backstage. The former This Morning presenter said she often felt 'really rubbish' comparing herself to competitors like Debbie McGee and Gemma Atkinson.
Speaking exclusively, Langsford described Anton as 'the kindest man' who provided a shoulder to lean on during difficult moments. She recalled: 'I was always bursting into tears as the show went on, because it gets hard and everyone's so good.' Anton would reassure her, saying 'you're fine', and never criticised her.
Langsford praised Anton's ability to soothe her nerves, remembering that when she was about to cry, he would suggest a cup of tea. She called him 'the nicest man' and said their friendship was 'the best thing' to come from her Strictly experience.
Since 2021, Anton has been a judge on the show alongside Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas and Motsi Mabuse. Langsford expressed delight at his promotion but lamented that it means she cannot dance with him again. She joked: 'Let me have another go with Anton! I can't now, because he's a judge.'
Langsford and Anton narrowly missed reaching Blackpool in 2017, losing a dance-off to Jonnie Peacock and Oti Mabuse. Joe McFadden and Katya Jones won the Glitterball Trophy that year.
