Angela Rippon
| Fact title | Fact data |
|---|---|
| Age |
79
|
| Profession |
Journalist, TV presenter, Newsreader and Author
|
| Partner |
Meet Angela Rippon
She's an icon, she's a legend and she's about to have her Strictly moment
From Come Dancing to Strictly Come Dancing, it’s a full circle moment for Angela Rippon.
Angela Rippon is an award-winning journalist, TV presenter, newsreader and author, whose captivating presence has graced our screens for over 50 years. She’s had a groundbreaking career, hitting many milestones, and has presented a diverse array of television programmes over the years.
At only four years old, Angela’s mum faced a choice to fix her knock knees: buying built-up shoes or dance lessons. Her mum opted for dance lessons, and by the age of seventeen, Angela’s legs had not only straightened but had also discovered a natural affinity for dancing. Little did she know the extraordinary career that dance would shape for her.
In 1973, Angela embarked on her journey as a reporter at the BBC, subsequently transitioning to the role of a newsreader in 1975 and securing the first ever interview with Margaret Thatcher after she became leader of the conservative party. Pioneering the way for female journalists, she became the regular face of the BBC national news from 1975 to 1981, even achieving the prestigious newsreader of the year award.
In 1976, Angela astounded the nation with her exceptional dance skills when she made a surprising appearance on the Morecambe and Wise Christmas Special. So iconic and still very much talked about to this day!
From 1977 onwards, she presented numerous notable shows including Eurovision, Top Gear, Antiques Roadshow and anchored BBC’s coverage of the wedding of the Prince of Wales and Lady Diana Spencer. She is currently the host of Rip Off Britain which has been a huge success and it spawned two spin-off shows, Rip Off Britain: Holidays and Rip Off Britain: Food.
With dance being a huge part of her life, in 1988 Angela became the host of the predecessor to Strictly Come Dancing, Come Dancing. Now, over 30 years later, she returns to Strictly, after making two guest host appearances, as a contestant. This really is a full circle for Angela, and she cannot wait to get going!
