Anton Du Beke joined ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ because of Sir Bruce Forsyth.
The professional dancer has appeared on the show alongside the 86-year-old presenter since it began in 2004 and admitted that Bruce – who has now retired from the series – was one of the main reasons behind his decision to take part.
Anton described his friendship with Sir Bruce as an "honour" and insists they will remain friends even now he is no longer on the programme.
The 47-year-old star exclusively told BANG Showbiz: "Well I love him because one of the reasons in the early days for me to do ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ was because Bruce Forsyth was hosting it. What’s lovely for me is that I’ve become friends with Brucie, we play a lot of golf and I spend a bit of time with him. And that for me is an honour and a treat. It’s one of those things in life that I couldn’t really wish for."
He added: "I’ve been very lucky that I’ve spent time with Brucie and of course I’m going to miss him but he’s still my friend and I’m still going to see him. I’ll still continue to lose money to him on the golf course."
Although Anton – who can be seen on Channel 4’s new game show ‘Draw It!’ tonight (09.05.14) – is yet to be informed by producers if he is returning to the series this year, he admitted he would consider hanging up his dance shoes to follow in Bruce’s footsteps and co-host the show if the opportunity were to present itself.
When asked if he would like to host the series with Tess Daly, he said: "I just wait for the phone to ring and see what they offer me. I don’t really give it any thought and then you’re never disappointed. It’s like all these things unfortunately – it’s sort of out of my hands.
"I found that in my life as a dancer and competitor you can only control the things you are involved in. The show is the show and on it goes."
‘Draw It!’ is on Channel 4 every week day at 4.30pm
Anton Du Beke joined ‘Strictly’ because of Bruce Forsyth
