Former Strictly Come Dancing star Angela Rippon has reflected on her “wonderful” experience on the BBC dance show, praising the entire production team and her fellow contestants.

Speaking to GB News, the veteran broadcaster shared her enthusiasm about her time on the programme.


Rippon appeared on the show in 2023, becoming the oldest contestant in history to grace the ballroom floor, having previously hosted the original Come Dancing series in 1988.

The TV presenter, partnered with Kai Widdrington, went on to finish seventh place on the show and was eliminated during the show’s iconic Blackpool week.

Angela Rippon

Angela Rippon reflected on her Strictly Come Dancing journey

GB News / BBC

At the time of her elimination, Rippon said she had “the time of her life” performing on the show.

Reflecting on her experience a year later, she told GB News: “I had a ball, I loved every minute of it, of course I did.”

The television presenter was particularly complimentary about the behind-the-scenes team that makes the show possible.

She explained: “It helped enormously that everybody that you work with on the team, behind the camera and in front of it, and all the dancers are all just absolutely fabulous, they’re a fabulous group of people to work with.”

Angela Rippon splitsAngela Rippon’s split move was the highlight of her Strictly Come Dancing debut BBC

Her glowing review encompassed both the technical crew and the professional dancers who make the show what it is.

Angela Rippon spoke warmly about her partnership with professional dancer Kai Widdrington, which has blossomed into a lasting friendship.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:

Angela RipponAngela Rippon revealed she ‘still works on projects’ with Kai WiddringtonGB News

“In Kai Widdrington, I had a fabulous, fabulous partner,” she told GB News.

The broadcaster revealed that their connection has extended beyond their time on the dance floor.

“He and I have become great, great mates and still work on projects together,” Rippon shared.

Summing up her entire Strictly experience, Rippon was unequivocal in her appreciation.

“So the whole experience for me was was just wonderful. I loved every minute of it.”

Delivering her verdict on Rippon’s Strictly experience, host Ellie Costello said: “Last year, you truly shone. You were just captivating. Honestly, you were amazing.”

Cohost Stephen Dixon then added jokingly: “And you got a high kick in as well, which was marvellous!”