Strictly Come Dancing judge and former professional dancer Anton Du Beke has candidly reflected on the difficulties he encountered throughout his career in the dance industry. 

The 58-year-old, known for his charisma and charm on the hit BBC show, 

admitted that his early years in the competitive dance scene were fraught with financial struggles, self-doubt, and an unrelenting drive to succeed.

Anton, who began dancing later than many of his peers, described himself as being completely consumed by his ambition, 

often pushing himself to the limits in pursuit of success. 

Speaking openly about his journey, he revealed that he was “obsessed” with winning and constantly sought validation for his talent and hard work.

His career took shape alongside professional dance partner Erin Boag, with whom he formed a formidable duo. The pair first met in 1997 and soon made a name for themselves by winning the New Zealand Championships in both 1998 and 1999. Their success propelled them into the professional dance circuit, but despite their achievements, Anton admitted that setbacks and criticisms often left him feeling deeply disheartened.

One particularly challenging moment in his career occurred during a major competition at the French Open in Paris. Reflecting on the experience, he recalled how poorly they had performed, leaving him feeling “depressed” and questioning his future in dance. At the time, he and Boag were also struggling personally, as tensions in their partnership mounted. Financial pressures only compounded the situation, as Anton revealed that he was earning just £100 a week while his expenses far exceeded his income.

During an appearance on Kate Thornton’s White Wine Question Time podcast, Anton described this phase of his life as an “internal crisis.” He admitted that he seriously considered abandoning his dreams, believing that he was wasting his time and effort. “Everything was horrendous,” he recalled. “We danced badly, we weren’t doing well in competitions, and that was everything to me.”

Despite these doubts, Anton ultimately decided to persevere. He came to the realization that dance was his true passion and that he had no desire to pursue any other career path. This newfound determination pushed him to work even harder, refine his skills, and build his reputation within the dance community.

His resilience paid off when he was offered the opportunity to join the inaugural season of Strictly Come Dancing in 2004. As one of the original professional dancers on the show, he quickly became a fan favorite, known for his traditional ballroom style and witty personality. Over the years, he partnered with a variety of celebrity contestants, guiding them through the highs and lows of the competition.

In 2021, Anton transitioned from professional dancer to a permanent judge on the show, solidifying his status as a key figure in the Strictly Come Dancing family. His journey from struggling dancer to celebrated television personality is a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for the art of dance.

Anton Du Beke’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring dancers and performers alike. His openness about the challenges he faced reminds us that success often comes with setbacks, but perseverance and belief in oneself can lead to remarkable achievements.

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