'A KNIGHTHOOD WOULD SIT NICELY SIR ANTON DU BEKE!'

ANTON DU BEKE SHARES HIS DREAMS OF A PEERAGE, THE JOY OF FATHERHOOD AND WHY STRICTLY'S WINNERS USUALLY SURPRISE HIM

- JEN PHARO 

Anton Du Beke likes to get things right. A self-confessed perfectionist, Strictly Come Dancing’s newest and arguably most popular judge always gives 100 per cent. From his flawless foxtrots to his endless witticisms, Anton aims to please.

When he arrives for his exclusive interview with OK! magazine, Anton is thoughtful, immaculately presented and charming. He has worked hard to get where he is today, and he’s determined to excel and enjoy his role in equal measure.

“I feel as determined about this as I did when I was competing and trying to win,” he confides. “I am trying to be the best I can be. I don’t want anyone to ever think I wasn’t trying my best – that makes me feel a bit sick.”

Anton is such a professional, he makes a point of being ready 30 minutes before he’s required on stage, be it for Strictly, his TV work or his theatre show. “I like to be ready for what we call ‘on the half’. Half an hour before we open.”

Not only is he well prepared, he also makes sure he is presented as impeccably as his hero, Fred Astaire. He famously gets his tailored shirts on Jermyn Street, like King Charles, and for the new series, he’ll have a special treat for every broadcast.

“I’ll have two new jackets every weekend,” he smiles. “That’s very exciting. I love a new jacket. Clothes are massively important. I think about Fred Astaire and all the things he used to wear. That’s where my great inspiration comes from. He’s the ultimate – that’s who I wanted to be when I was growing up.