Get to know Strictly Come Dancing stars Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag. Plus, discover a unique opportunity to enjoy a 5* star weekend break dancing alongside the BBC One Strictly professionals.
Updated 7th March 2024
Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag are notably crowned as the King and Queen of Ballroom.
This dazzling duo truly epitomises the golden standard of ballroom dancing.
The ever-charismatic Anton is not just a veteran on the dance floor but a cherished British icon. His journey on Strictly has been nothing short of remarkable – from being a stalwart professional dancer since 2004 to becoming a 2019 finalist and now, a revered Strictly judge since 2021.
His expertise and charm earned him the prestigious title of ‘Judge of the Year’ at the 2022 National Television Awards.
Anton Du Beke latest news – the BBC has unveiled that Anton, alongside fellow Strictly star Giovanni, will bring their vivacious spirit back to the TV screen in a second series of the much-loved BBC ONE travel series, ‘Anton and Giovanni: Adventures in Spain’, set to enchant viewers from 18th March 2024 onwards.
Having danced together professionally for over 20 years, Anton and Erin have become Britain’s most recognised and well-regarded ballroom couple, bringing glitz, glamour and elegance to every performance.
The 2023 series sees Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke, return to the judging panel for the third year running – what a fab-u-lous Judge.
Having partnered with celebrities for 18 series and being the longest-serving pro, Anton has taken his well-earned place on the judging panel.
Always a firm favourite on Strictly, now meet Anton and Erin in the flesh with Donaheys. We are offering you an amazing opportunity to learn to dance with these amazing dancers, learn their techniques and so much more.
Learn all about Anton & Erin’s dancing achievements, dance partners, relationships, facts, and read their latest news, announcements and tours below, and don’t miss your opportunity to dance with this golden duo.
Who better to learn to dance with, than the King of Ballroom himself – Anton du Beke and his wonderful dance partner Erin Boag.
Not only can you learn to dance with these amazing professional dancers but you’ll hear all the back stage gossip from the latest series, plus see them perform their stunning dance showcase for you up close and personal.
Spend the weekend with your favourite stars of Strictly Come Dancing at the impressive 4* De Vere Beaumont Estate in Windsor.
Join BAFTA Award Winner Giovanni Pernice, Lauren Oakley, Kai Widdrington, Nadiya Bychkova, Anton Du Beke, Erin Boag, British Dance Champion Finalists David Cockram & Rosie Ward, Argentine Tango Instructors Letita & Andres, Strictly Vocalist Lance Ellington plus The Tony Greenwood 15-piece Big Band
Spend the weekend with your favourite stars of Strictly Come Dancing at the stunning 5* Celtic Manor Resort in South Wales.
Join NTA Judge Of The Year Anton Du Beke, Erin Boag, Kai Widdrington, Nadiya Bychkova, Aljaz Skorjanec, Janette Manrara, Katya Jones, Strictly Argentine Tango Choreographers Leandro Palou & Maria Tsiatsiani, British, European & World 10 Dance Champions Glenn Richard Boyce & Caroly Janes, Former World Professional Ballroom Champions Warren & Kristi Boyce, Strictly Vocalist Lance Ellington plus The Tony Greenwood 15-piece Big Band.
Since 2004 Anton & Erin have attended Donahey’s Weekend Breaks, here’s what they say…
‘Paul, you organise the most wonderful events, thank you. We always look forward to Donahey’s events, well done.’ Erin Boag
‘Paul, you’re such a Superstar for organising such a fabulous event’ Anton Du Beke
Anton Du Beke was smitten by the rhythm of dance at the tender age of 14, embarking on a journey into the world of Modern Theatre Dance, Ballet, and Contemporary Jazz. His feet found their calling in ballroom dancing at 17, setting the stage for a soon-to-be illustrious dance career.
57 years old (born 20th July 1966)
Anton stands at 1.8m tall
Sevenoaks, Kent
Hands off, ladies! Anton married his beautiful wife Hannah Summers in 2017.
Anton met Hannah at Wentworth Golf Club in 2012 and they married in 2017 shortly after welcoming their children.
Hannah and Anton share twins named George and Henrietta born.
The stars aligned in 1997 when Anton’s dance journey intertwined with Erin Boag’s, marking the onset of a legendary partnership. Their synergy was palpable as they swiftly clinched the New Zealand Championships title two years in a row, and dazzled their way to victory at the prestigious International Dance Championships at The Royal Albert Hall, London.
As their camaraderie blossomed, Anton and Erin transitioned into the professional realm of dance in 2002, opening a new chapter filled with a cascade of wins and accolades that didn’t go unnoticed. Their dance prowess caught the eye of the BBC in 2004, etching their names in the annals of ballroom history.
Besides his enchanting ballroom exploits, Anton’s charismatic presence extended to television, where he presented shows like ‘Step up to the Plate’ and ‘Hole in the Wall’, and made guest appearances on a myriad of celebrity programmes and chat shows.
Yet, amidst his varied ventures, Anton’s heart beats strongest on the ballroom floor, especially alongside Erin on Strictly, where their impeccable ballroom skills continue to bedazzle audiences, embodying a legacy of elegance and excellence that dances on in the hearts of many.
It’s no-nonsense Erin Boag.
Anton has taken the position of Judge on Strictly, replacing Bruno Toniloi since 2021
Anton loves the Foxtrot.
Anton has been on the show since its conception in 2004.
Anton has had 18 different dance partners on Strictly.
Anton opened the show back in 2004 with leading lady Lesley Garrett, followed by; Esther Rantzen, Patsy Palmer, Jan Ravens, Kate Garraway, Gillian Taylforth, Laila Rouass, Ann Widdecombe, Nancy Dell’Olio, Jerry Hall, Fiona Fullerton, Judy Murray, Katie Derham, Lesley Joseph, Ruth Langsford, Susannah Constantine, Emma Barton and Former Home Secretary Jacqui Smith. He’s certainly earned his Strictly stripes.
In the 2020 series, Anton partnered former Home Secretary Jacqui Smith. Sadly Anton & Jacqui were the first couple to be eliminated from the show following their week 2 Samba.
In 2019 Anton partnered with actress Emma Barton all the way to the Strictly Final – Together they performed some stunning dances including their High energy Charleston from Musicals Week, a graceful Viennese Waltz from Week 4 & a razzle-dazzle Showdance.
He’s come amazingly close on several occasions, reaching third place with Lesley Garrett and making the final with Katie Derham in 2015, but he’s yet to be crowned the winner.
Find out who has won BBC Strictly Come Dancing with our full list of past Strictly winners from 2004 here – Strictly Winners
The BBC has announced that Giovanni & Anton will star in a second series of BBC ONE TV Travel series Anton and Giovanni: Adventures in Spain.
Coming to BBC One and BBC iPlayer in 2024, this brand new three-part entertainment travel series will see Giovanni and fellow dancer Anton tour Spain.
Are you kidding? This man was born immaculately dressed. However, he did become entangled in Nancy Dell’Olio’s green feather boa during a Waltz in series 9.
Since 2018 Anton has become a Sunday Times Bestselling Arthur, penning some fabulous dance-based fiction books.
Anton’s latest book is titled The Paris Affair.
Ballroom Blitz – The stunning novel from Sunday Times bestselling author Anton Du Beke. September 1940. As the skies split apart and bombs rain down on London, it’s all the staff at the famed Buckingham Hotel can do to keep their guests in the luxury they’re accustomed to, and evoke the magic of the Grand ballroom for them each night.
Anton’s Book titles in order are;
One Enchanted Evening (2018)
Moonlight Over Mayfair (2019)
A Christmas to Remember (2020)
We’ll Meet Again (2021)
Ballroom Blitz (2022)
The Royal Show (March 2023)
The Paris Affair (October 2023)
In 2022 Anton was crowned TV Judge of The Year at the National Television Awards
Tony Beek
Learn more about Anton’s dancing profile on his official BBC Strictly Come Dancing profile page.
Erin Boag originally made her name in the highly competitive world of international dance, competing and winning with her partner Anton du Beke, at the New Zealand Championships. Erin has enjoyed a highly successful career both on and off-screen.
Erin is the only female dancer to compete in 10 series of Strictly. Erin came closest to becoming a Mirror Ball Champion with athlete Colin Jackson in 2005, where they were pipped to the post in a sizzling Grand Final with Darren Gough & Lilia Kopylova.
Erin has made her mark as one of the most highly respected female ballroom dancers since Ginger Rogers. Sadly, following 10 successful years on SCD, in 2013 Erin announced she would be stepping down from her time on Strictly.
Speaking on her Strictly retirement Erin said;
‘After ten wonderful years, and with a truly heavy heart, I have decided to decline the BBC’s very kind offer to compete again in series eleven, and have withdrawn from being a competitive dancer on Strictly Come Dancing. It’s been a very hard decision to make, but it’s time for a change and to focus my attention on new challenges. That said, it’s not necessarily farewell to Strictly, as I do hope to continue being a part of the show.‘ Erin Boag – June 2013
48 years old (born 17th March 1975)
Auckland, New Zealand
As hilarious as it might be, Erin is not married to Anton. Erin is married to Peter O’Dowd and they have a son called Ewan.
The Queen of Ballroom started dancing at age three and studied Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Latin and of course, Ballroom. By age 18 she was the New Zealand 10 Dance Champion. Following her partnership with Anton in 1997, they went on to win the New Zealand Championship two years running and the prestigious International Dance Championships at The Royal Albert Hall in London. After turning professional in 2002, the couple accrued numerous accolades and wins.
The one and only Anton Du Beke.
Erin loves the Quickstep.
Like Anton, Erin started her Strictly journey back in 2004 when the series began. In fact, she’s Strictly’s longest-serving female professional dancer with 10 years under her sequin belt. She was also fondly known as ‘Miss Whiplash’ due to her no-nonsense teaching style.
Erin’s dance partners on Strictly include; Martin Offiah, Julian Clary, Colin Jackson, Peter Schmeichel, Willie Thorne, Austin Healey, Ricky Groves, Peter Shilton, Rory Bremner and Richard Arnold.
No. Despite 10 successful years on Strictly, Erin didn’t win the glitter ball before leaving in 2013.
Seriously? Always the consummate professional, Erin has never had a costume mishap on Strictly.
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Find out more information about the BBC TV programme Strictly Come Dancing
by checking out the BBC Strictly Come Dancing website
www.bbc.co.uk/strictlycomedancing
Discover more about BBC Strictly Come Dancing professionals Anton and Erin, checkout their official website
www.antonanderin.com
Checkout Erin Boag’s official website
www.erinboag.com
Take a look at Anton Du Beke’s official website
www.antondubeke.co.uk
Find out all about Giovanni Pernice & Anton Du Beke 2024 Tour ‘Together’
www.antonandgiovanni.com//
Find out all about Anton Du Beke 2024 Tour
https://www.antontour.com/tickets-dates
Donahey’s Dance Lessons & 4* UK Weekend Breaks are not associated with the BBC.
Learn more about all your favourite Strictly Pro’s here;
– Aljaz Skorjanec
– Amy Dowden
– Dianne Buswell
– Giovanni Pernice
– Gorka Marquez
– Graziano di Prima
– Janette Manrara
– Johannes Radebe
– Jowita Przystal
– Kai Widdrington
– Karen Hauer
– Katya Jones
– Luba Mushtuk
– Nadiya Bychkova
– Nancy Xu
– Neil Jones
– Nikita Kuzmin
– Jowita Przystal
– Lauren Oakley
– Oti Mabuse
Learn more about all the Strictly Judges here;
– Anton du Beke
– Shirley Ballas
– Motsi Mabuse
– Craig Revel Horwood