EastEnders actress Emma Barton, 42, is single and lives in Surrey. Her dance partner is a well-loved face Anton Du Beke.
STRICTLY STRENGTH?
I’m a good listener and quite calm, so I don’t panic. Also, I’ve done musical theatre, so I’m used to going out there and performing live.
FAMILY’S THOUGHTS?
My mum and dad are over the moon. We’re massive fans and I don’t think they can believe it’s happening!
ANY SURPRISES?
The tiredness and the amount of bruises. I just don’t know where they come from.
ADVICE FROM YOUR EASTENDERS CO-STARS?
Jake Wood said, ‘If in doubt, just wiggle your hips!’. And Letitia Dean bought me a goody bag filled with a foot spa, plasters and face masks.
STRICTLY STYLE?
I feel like a little girl because where else do you really get to dress up in these outfits? Also, it’s such a privilege to have dresses made for you.
ANTON’S TEACHING STYLE?
He’s very clear and doesn’t just talk in dancer language. And if you do something right, he praises you – I think everyone needs that.
EMBARRASSING DANCE MOMENTS?
In one of my first jobs, I had to run from one corner to another through rain while the leading man was singing his solo. I stacked it centre stage and thought my career was over.
EARLIEST CHRISTMAS MEMORY?
Going through my nan and grandad’s wardrobe and finding out they’d bought me an A La Cart kitchen. I was so excited – that’s where my acting skills came into play because I had to act surprised. I was only eight!
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