Embracing Ageing: Anton Du Beke’s Perspective
Gratitude, sadness, and resignation: the journey of ageing is one that each individual navigates in their own unique way. For Anton Du Beke, the former professional dancer and long-time star of Strictly Come Dancing, this process is something he would prefer to avoid entirely. “I’d rather it didn’t happen, thanks very much. If we can find a way of reversing the process, I’d be first in the queue,” he admits with a playful twinkle in his eye.
“Get yourself some young children – that’ll keep you young,” he continues, referencing his lively seven-year-old twin daughters. “You won’t find yourself lounging on the sofa with two of them around. Having children is the best anti-ageing tonic there is.” With a chuckle, he adds, “That, and a couple of puppies,” alluding to the two energetic fox-red Labrador puppies that joined his family in 2024. “And then you’ll never sleep!”
Since turning 50 in 2016, Du Beke’s life has been a whirlwind of achievements. At the age of 51, he embraced fatherhood for the first time with the birth of twins Henrietta and George. Having been a fixture on the BBC dance juggernaut since its debut in 2004, he transitioned from the dance floor to the judges’ panel permanently in 2021. In addition to his television career, he has authored over 10 books and made appearances on various shows. However, he is now dedicating more of his time to a passion that may come as a surprise: golf.
With an impressive handicap of one, Du Beke is no stranger to the sport. “I was introduced to golf by a gentleman at my old dancing school when I was a young man,” he recalls fondly. “From that moment on, I had an instant love affair with the game, and it has only grown since.”
Now, he has teamed up with his friend, fellow golfer, and Sky Sports presenter Sarah Stirk to launch a new podcast titled Putt and Strut. This series focuses on the lighter side of golf. “We’re not getting into the nitty-gritty of swings and techniques,” he states. The podcast features a roster of celebrity guests, including actor James Nesbitt, tennis coach Judy Murray, model and racing car driver Jodie Kidd, and professional golfer Colin Montgomerie, engaging in conversations about all things golf and more.
Du Beke’s goal extends beyond sharing his love for the sport; he is passionate about making golf more accessible to a wider audience. “I want to open up the game and make it welcoming for everyone, especially ladies and families,” he emphasizes. “It can feel intimidating to enter what is often viewed as a male-dominated sport. We aim to make it more enjoyable and affordable for everyone.”
Beyond being a social and physically engaging activity, Du Beke found romance on the golf course, meeting his wife, Hannah, at a golf dinner—even though she had never swung a club before. “I’ve since introduced her to the sport,” he shares. “That’s the beauty of golf: it allows players of all levels to enjoy the game together. Unlike tennis or other sports where skill levels need to match, in golf, you can play your own game, using your own ball, all while utilizing the handicap system.”
“So although I’ve been playing all my life and Hannah’s just starting out, we can still play against each other, and that’s wonderful. I look forward to us all being on a golf buggy in Spain or somewhere warm, enjoying a round of golf together. That’s the dream,” he adds with enthusiasm.
When it comes to dream golfing partners, Du Beke cites Tiger Woods as his number one pick. However, his choice for a fantasy dance partner may surprise many. “Fred Astaire, Cyd Charisse, Ginger Rogers… all would be incredible,” he muses. “But I’ve always wanted to dance with Darcey Bussell. She’s the one living person I’ve always dreamed of dancing with, but it hasn’t happened yet.” He reflects, “We’re not as flexible as we once were, so perhaps we’d need to choose something a bit more relaxed.”
Despite his multifaceted career, is there anything else this dance icon would like to accomplish? “I feel incredibly fortunate—I truly love what I do,” he begins. “But I haven’t acted in anything yet. I know many actors might roll their eyes and think, ‘Oh, here comes someone who thinks he can just jump in.’ But I want to learn the art of acting properly. I’d love to study it and truly immerse myself in the craft. Apparently, the new Bond role is up for grabs…”
With his exceptional footwork, a killer swing, and a flair for style, Anton Du Beke could indeed be a worthy successor to Daniel Craig as the next iconic 007.
‘Putt and Strut’ is available on Global Player and all major podcast platforms.
