From News Pioneer to Dance Icon: Angela Rippon’s Remarkable Journey

Angela Rippon, the pioneering presenter, made headlines as the oldest contestant on Strictly Come Dancing at 79. With a rich career in journalism and television, she also has a flair for dance, first displayed in the 1976 Morecambe & Wise show. Now an ambassador for older adults’ fitness through dance, she continues to inspire others to stay active and embrace their passions.

Angela Rippon has enjoyed quite the illustrious career, transitioning from a news trailblazer to a dazzling dance diva on Strictly Come Dancing. At 79, she made history as the show’s oldest contestant, dazzling viewers with her exquisite dance moves and high kicks.

Born in Plymouth in 1944, Angela launched her career in journalism at just 17, first at the Western Morning News before making her way to television. By 1966, she was presenting at BBC South West, setting the stage for an illustrious broadcasting career.

In 1975, she shattered glass ceilings as the first female presenter of BBC’s Nine O’Clock News, a remarkable feat considering the limited presence of women in the field at that time. With a remarkable repertoire, she went on to host popular shows like Top Gear and Antiques Roadshow.

As she stepped away from Antiques Roadshow in 1983, Angela noted how people’s perceptions of antiques shifted dramatically. “People would bring huge pieces of furniture in great lorries,” she reminisced, highlighting a decline in the value of brown furniture that once flourished in the show’s heyday.

Angela’s unexpected dancing journey began in a memorable sketch on the 1976 Morecambe & Wise Christmas Show, where she showcased her striking high-kick routine. This early glimpse of her dance prowess later shone on Strictly, making her return to the ballroom feel serendipitous.

Despite her busy schedule, Angela has remained passionate about movement and fitness, even advocating for the Royal Academy of Dance’s Silver Swans programme, which encourages folks over 50 to keep their ballet dreams alive. “You have to keep your body moving so that you can be strong and fit and supple well into your 60s, 70s, 80s and beyond,” she advised.

Angela’s dazzling career includes co-presenting the Eurovision Song Contest in 1977 and covering splendid royal events. Yet, returning to the Strictly stage felt particularly special, as it reignited her love for dance, even if she didn’t waltz off with the glitterball trophy.

Angela and her partner, Kai Widdrington, made it all the way to Blackpool, and their joyful camaraderie stood out. “There is a 51-year age gap between us, but you’d never know it because we have become such mates!” she cheerfully exclaimed, raising the roof on the notion that dance, friendship, and a good laugh can bridge any age divide.

Angela Rippon’s journey has been nothing short of exhilarating, crossing various domains from journalism to broadcasting and now into the realm of dance. A trailblazer for women in media, she broke barriers in television news while also showcasing her immense talent and passion for dance. Her recent appearances on Strictly Come Dancing have rekindled her love for the stage and inspired many to embrace physical activity, regardless of age.

Angela Rippon’s vibrant journey from news presenter to dancing queen highlights her versatility and tenacity. Her commitment to staying active at any age inspires others to find joy in movement and dance, cementing her status as a beloved figure in British entertainment.

Original Source: www.express.co.uk