ANTON Du Beke has admitted he fears being axed from Strictly like his good friend Brendan Cole.
The 53-year-old is the oldest pro in the competition and has danced on it since it first aired in 2004.
And while he’s having a series to remember with Emma Barton, he’s not taking it for granted.
He told the Mirror: “I’m the luckiest guy in the world.
“I’m walking through fields of gold. But that doesn’t mean I don’t worry. I work in this peculiar business called show and you always think it might end tomorrow.
“Look at poor old Brendan [Cole]. I love him dearly. But one day you’re in; the next, you’re out.”
Brendan was axed from the show last year having also starred in every series alongside Anton.
Tonight Anton collapsed to the ground after receiving his first 10s in 15 years.
Even though the show veteran has reached the final before, he’s never received a perfect mark from any of the judges.
But that all changed tonight during the Blackpool special after dancing the American Smooth with his celebrity partner Emma in the Tower Ballroom.
After glowing remarks from the judges, the couple headed to receive their scores, and after an eight and a nine from Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse, head judge Shirley Ballas held up her 10 paddle.
Bruno Tonioli also dished out a 10, and Anton couldn’t believe what he saw, collapsing to the ground and covering his face as EastEnders star Emma looked equally shocked.
Host Claudia Winkleman then told the viewers it was Anton’s first ever 10s.
As everyone celebrated, Anton then told Claudia: “17 series, you have no idea.”
He then joked: “This must be how Kevin Clifton feels.”
As the camera panned away, he then planted a big kiss on Emma’s cheek.
Taking to Twitter, one viewer wrote: “Anton getting a 10 after being on the show for so long is definitely my highlight of the series! His reaction is everything.”
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Another added: “Aww wow! 2 10s for Anton & Emma! So happy!!! Loved Antons reaction!! #Strictly.”
A third was equally pleased for him, writing: “Ah bless Anton. First 10’s in 17 series’ of #Strictly.”
Anton finished third in the very first series back in 2004 with Lesley Garrett, before going on to partner people like Anne Widdecombe and Nancy Dell’Olio.
He reached the final in series 13 with Katie Derham before finishing in fourth place.
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