Anton Du Beke Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Sir Bruce Forsyth on Morning Live

On Morning Live today (13 November), Anton Du Beke became emotional as he paid tribute to the late showbiz legend Sir Bruce Forsyth. During his interview with hosts Gethin Jones and Kym Marsh, the former Strictly Come Dancing pro-turned-judge reflected on his deep admiration for Bruce, calling him his “hero.” 

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A Long Journey Together

Anton, 59, has been a fixture on Strictly Come Dancing since the very first series in 2004. He danced professionally for 15 years before transitioning to the judging panel in 2021.  Over his long career, he worked alongside Sir Bruce, who co-hosted Strictly from its inception until 2013.  Sir Bruce passed away in August 2017 at the age of 89. 

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The Man to Look Up To

Speaking with genuine emotion on Morning Live, Anton said:

“I had the best teacher of all, I had the great Sir Bruce Forsyth as the man to look up to.” 

He elaborated, “He’s always been a hero of mine. One of the things about doing Strictly Come Dancing for me was being able to work with Brucie. That was the real thing for me… I just love that style of entertainment, that old-school variety … standing in front of an audience … that’s why they had them so close, so he could be doing that: ‘Alright, my love.’” 

Anton emphasized how Bruce’s signature charm and showmanship made every performance feel alive:

“It’s the fun of it all really. It’s the joy of it all for me, and Brucie was the King of that … He was just the best.” 

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A Legacy That Lives On

Du Beke’s admiration for Bruce goes beyond their time on Strictly. In a past interview, he described Forsyth as not only an icon of entertainment but also a dear friend.  On his personal website, Anton referred to Bruce as “a true inspiration … but most of all, a very dear friend” after a tribute show, expressing how “a part of my heart will always be broken.” 

Sir Bruce was widely regarded as one of Britain’s greatest entertainers, known for his charisma, wit, and decades-spanning career. 

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Complex Emotions

While this was a deeply affectionate tribute, the relationship hasn’t always been without tension. According to a report, Bruce Forsyth’s widow, Lady Wilnelia Forsyth, expressed that she was “shocked and saddened” by some of Anton’s remarks about where Bruce’s ashes were laid, underlining that even close bonds can carry complicated legacies. 

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Why This Tribute Matters

Anton Du Beke’s emotional reflection on Morning Live isn’t just a nostalgic moment — it’s a reminder of how influential Sir Bruce Forsyth was to a whole generation of performers. For Anton, Bruce was more than a co-star: he was a mentor, a role model, and a friend whose impact shaped his entire career in show business.

By speaking so openly today, Anton is helping to keep Bruce’s memory alive, highlighting the joy and warmth he brought to the stage — and how that spirit continues to inspire people in entertainment and beyond.