Ruth Langsford and Shirley Ballas publicly supported Anton Du Beke amid the Strictly scandal.
The professional dancer was reportedly named as the “fourth star dragged into the misconduct probe” on the beloved BBC show. It is understood the judge, 58, “raised concerns” over a resurfaced historic row and alleged “1970s-style behaviour” with his former celebrity dance partner Laila Rouass.
Despite the ongoing investigation, Loose Women host Ruth also showed her support to the beloved dancer, who she was paired with during the 2017 series. Celebrating the award-winning dancer’s 58th birthday, she shared a sweet snap of the pair backstage when they were on the show.
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She gushed: “Happy birthday to the loveliest man and best partner EVER! Sending you a big birthday squeeze @mrantondubeke.”
(Image: Getty Images for BAFTA)
Head judge Shirley Ballas also took to her Instagram account to send her love on his birthday. Sharing a sweet snap of the pair together, she wrote: “Happiest of birthdays to the king @mrantondubeke. See you very soon.”
She later shared a clip of the pair dancing on the famous ballroom floor on the BBC set, which she simply captioned “throwback” over the top. It comes after Anton was seen for the first time since he was pulled into the Strictly Come Dancing misconduct scandal.
The judge has reportedly been named to lawyers Carter Ruck by former partner Laila, while he was a pro dancer back in 2009, according to The Mirror. Sources told the publication that their team is considering making an official complaint to the broadcaster in the coming days.
(Image: Instagram)
It is understood Anton made an inappropriate comment to Laila, who is of Indian and Moroccan descent, joking she “looked like a P***” after a spray tan. Insiders claim the contestant was reduced to tears from the comment at the time.
He later apologised and insisted there was “no racist intent” but he regretted using the word. Jan Ravens, who was partnered Anton in 2006, has also defended the star.
She told the outlet: “It’s one of those things he is going to be kicking himself for a long time. We had a brilliant time and such a laugh at rehearsals, we were always laughing and joking.”
(Image: PA)
Anton said at the time: “I must say immediately and categorically that I am not a racist and that I do not use racist language. During the course of rehearsals Laila and I have exchanged a great deal of banter entirely in jest, and two weeks ago there was an occasion when this term was used between the two of us.
“There was no racist intent whatsoever but I accept that it is a term which causes offence and I regret my use of it, which was done without thought or consideration of how others would react. I apologise unreservedly for any offence my actions might have caused.”
Actress Laika accepted his apology at the time, and said: “It was a situation which happened that we have moved on from and I accept his apology.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
