STRICTLY Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke has confessed he doesn't know "half the people" who star on the BBC reality series.
The dancer, 56, switched a spot on the professional line-up for the panel during season 18, back in 2021.
The Strictly fan-favourite joined the BBC series in 2004 and had a taste of his paddle-waving role in 2020, when he was a judge for two weeks.
During his time as a pro, he was partnered with the likes of presenter Ruth Langsford, actress Emma Barton and politician Ann Widdecombe - yet it appears some of the stars might never have been on his radar.
In a candid admission dad-of-two Anton said: "I don’t know half the people who come on Strictly Come Dancing.
"But they all turn out to be marvellous.
"For example, I didn’t know of Tasha Ghouri, but she was extraordinarily fabulous.
"I had no idea who Joe Sugg was either. In the old days of Strictly, we used to know everybody."
Tasha found fame on Love Island - yet her relationship with ex Andrew Le Page appears to have fallen victim to the Strictly curse.
She told how her man was "getting sick of Strictly" just days before their break-up.
Meanwhile Joe, who carved out a career on YouTube, is now dating Strictly professional Dianne Buswell.
Addressing the choices for the Strictly celeb line-up, Anton then added to The Times: "Strictly is not Love Island.
"There’s no point seeing gorgeous 25-year-olds dancing fabulously.
"We want the celebrity partners to reflect the people who watch the show."
TRICKY TIMES
During last season - which marked Strictly's 20th anniversary on-screen - Anton's fellow former professional James Jordan addressed speculation there is a "brewing feud" between Anton and co-judge Motsi Mabuse.
It came after fans suggested the duo were "at war" during the past season - which saw comedian Chris McCausland scoop the coveted Glitterball title.
All your Strictly Come Dancing winners
Strictly first kicked off back in 2004, and over the years has crowned 21 winners.
James, 46, staunchly defended Anton claiming he finds the rumours hard to believe, particularly given their long-standing friendship.
Speaking to Buzz Bingo on behalf of The Sun, James exclusively revealed: “I've known Anton for about 30 years and I honestly can't imagine anyone falling out with him.
"I just don't see it.
"I don't obviously watch it that intently, that I'm watching for eye movements and things, but I honestly can't imagine that there's any truth in that.
“I just think people try to start rumours, it's just speculation.
"I don't believe it. He's such a lovely guy. I can't see it.”
