Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative Member of Parliament and a recognizable figure from her time on the television show "Strictly Come Dancing," has died at the age of 78. Her agents confirmed her passing on Friday.
Widdecombe, who served as an MP for Maidstone and the Weald from 1997 to 2010, became a household name beyond her parliamentary career after participating in the fifth season of "Strictly Come Dancing" in 2010. She partnered with professional dancer Anton Du Beke, reaching the tenth week of the competition and forging a lasting friendship with him.
Du Beke expressed his devastation on Instagram, sharing a heartfelt tribute to Widdecombe. "She became a real friend. She was fun. She was upbeat. She was positive. She was supportive. She was game," he wrote. "We had an incredible time together. And we stayed firm friends. My thoughts go out to all of her nearest and dearest, and all her family. This is a sad day, and I'm devastated by the news of Anne's passing. But I shall remember her fondly and miss her."
Other public figures also paid tribute to Widdecombe. Piers Morgan described her on X as a "charismatic, combative gem," noting her "no-nonsense, straight-talking, highly-opinionated" persona. Jeremy Vine recalled her as a "formidable politician who was never, ever afraid to express her views, but also had a great sense of humour and was always up for a laugh."
Amanda Barrie, who starred with Widdecombe on "Celebrity Big Brother," shared that despite their opposing views on many issues, she "adored her." Barrie described Widdecombe as having a "big bulldog frontage" but a "really kind person" underneath.
Born in May 1947, Widdecombe had a notable political career, known for her staunch views on moral issues, including abortion and same-sex marriage, and advocating for a zero-tolerance approach to drugs. After leaving Parliament, she remained a prominent public commentator and also ventured into stage acting, appearing in pantomimes.
Her time on "Strictly Come Dancing" and later "Celebrity Big Brother" further cemented her public profile, showcasing a different facet of her personality with both comedic and memorable moments. She returned to the "Strictly" ballroom for a festive special in 2018.
Authorities are understood to be investigating the circumstances surrounding her death. Widdecombe, who never married and had no children, was found at her home in Devon.