Strictly judge thinks Anton Du Beke could win 2019 series

Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas has admitted that professional dancer Anton Du Beke could finally get his hands on the glitterball trophy this series.

Partnered up with Emma Barton, the pair have made it far in the competition already, but luck hasn't usually been on Anton's side during his time on the show.

Appearing on Sunday Brunch today (December 1), Shirley weighed in on why this could be the year for the 53-year-old.

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Channel 4

"He's creative and he goes out there and gives his best, and I think he's shone with this young lady Emma," she told presenters Tim Lovejoy and Simon Rimmer.

"You know, he's come out there, who knew what to expect with Anton? What I feel he's done this time is took it really seriously and he's shown the audience exactly what he can do.

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"For that now, I wouldn't be surprised if he's in the final and maybe, possibly could win. We'll have to see," teased Shirley.

Strictly Come Dancing week 8 - Anton Du Beke and Emma Barton

Guy Levy//BBC

Would you like to see Anton and Emma crowned this year's champions?

Strictly Come Dancing 2019 continues next Saturday (December 7) on BBC One.

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Dan Seddon

Reporter, Digital Spy

Dan is a freelance entertainment journalist. Beginning his writing career in 2014, Dan's work first graced the pages of cult publications Starburst magazine and Little White Lies before moving onto Total Film, Digital Spy, NME and Yahoo Entertainment.

In the film and TV universe, he kneels at the altar of Jim Carrey, Daniel Plainview, Mike Ehrmantraut and Paulie Walnuts.