Anton du Beke was overjoyed to be partnered with Emma Barton on ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.
The 53-year-old professional dancer couldn’t contain his excitement as he was given the soap star as a partner on the BBC One latin and ballroom show.
Asked how he felt by host Claudia Winkleman, he said: "Oh my God, I’m going to be here until Christmas! … I just would like to say to all the other ladies, I apologise, I know it seemed a bit overreaction if you’ve been through what I’ve been through."
Elsewhere, reigning champion Kevin Clifton was partnered with Anneka Rice whilst ‘Coronation Street’ star Catherine Tyldesley was given Johannes Radebe. Saffron Barker was partnered with AJ Pritchard whilst Michelle Visage and Giovanni Pernice were put together during Saturday night’s (07.09.19) launch show.
Alex Scott was given Neil Jones whilst James Cracknell was handed new girl Luba Mushtuk as his partner.
Karim Zeroual was partnered with Amy Dowden and comedian Chris Ramsey was given Karen Hauer. David James and Nadia Bychkova, Viscountess Emma Thynn Weymouth and Aljaž Škorjanec and Mike Bushell and Katya Jones were put together.
Will Bayley and Janette Manrara and Dev Griffin and Dianne Buswell completed the line up.
Jaime Laing was partnered with Oti Mabuse but he has been forced to pull out of the show after injuring his foot.
The ‘Made In Chelsea’ star said: "I’m absolutely devastated that I’m unable to continue in the competition, I was so excited to hit the dance floor! I would like to wish the lovely couples all the very best and hope they enjoy their time on the show to the fullest."
Whilst the programme’s executive producer Sarah James added: "We are so sad that Jamie won’t be able to take part in the series, he had already lit up the ballroom during the launch show with his boundless energy and enthusiasm. We all wish him a full and speedy recovery."
Strictly Come Dancing partners revealed
