Anton Du Beke has been a family favourite on Strictly for the past 15 years but has never won the BBC show, and so after getting his partner EastEnders’ actor Emma Barton to this year’s final, the dancer has reportedly had enough and is said to be looking for new adventures. Anton and Emma were the second favourites to win last night after Kelvin and Oti, but their dances fell short against the Emmerdale star.
Anton, 53, is said to have warned bosses that his time on Strictly could be coming to an end.
After 17 series of the show, and never being able to lift that trophy, the dancer has reportedly had enough.
Last night saw Anton and Emma perform three of their best dancers including the Charleston, the Viennese Waltz and their show dance.
There were many tears throughout the evening, but it seems the pro-dancer has been planning his exit for a while.
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A source told The Star: “Anton absolutely loves being part of Strictly, but he’s been thinking about moving on for a while now.
“Earlier this year he had a chat with the show’s executive producers and explained how he was feeling.”
Anton wants to leave on a high, and now could be the perfect time after reaching the final of this year’s competition.
The pair had the viewers backing throughout the series, but when it came down to it Kelvin was just stronger on the night.
Strictly Come Dancing pro-dancers have to sign a year-long contract, so it’s not been confirmed yet whether Anton has signed his.
Anton recently spoke to Good Housekeeping about how he felt to get into the final.
He said: “This is beyond exciting. I can’t even tell you what it feels like, I wish I could remember what it felt like last time, the only time.”
Anton added: “For me, the whole experience has been wonderful but most of all I’ve enjoyed Emma’s love of doing the show, that’s been the best thing for me. To make the final is a joy.”
But maybe the viewers have had enough too? Last night viewers hit out at the judges for underscoring Anton and Emma.
One wrote: “Nine Craig for Emma oh come on! #StrictlyFinal.”
“What?! Emma gets a nine from Craig?! #BBCStrictly #Strictly,” another added.
One said: “So Karim trips and gets a 40, but Emma only gets 39. So much bias it’s unreal #StrictlyFinal.” Said a third.
So what’s the future for Anton Du Beke? Are we ready to let him go yet? And can we expect to see him on our screens again soon?
Express.co.uk has contacted a spokesperson for Anton Du Beke asking for comment.
