Ann Widdecombe, the former Conservative MP and Strictly Come Dancing star, has died at the age of 78. A statement from her management said: “It is with great sadness that today we announce the death of the Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe, DSG. We send our deepest condolences to Ann’s family and friends. We ask that the family’s wish not to be contacted at this sad time is respected.”
Political Career
Widdecombe served as a Conservative MP for the Kent constituency of Maidstone, later Maidstone and the Weald, from 1987 to 2010. She held several ministerial positions in Sir John Major’s government, including Home Office minister. She famously clashed with her colleague Michael Howard, describing him as having “something of the night about him”.
Post-Parliament Life
After leaving Parliament, she appeared on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, partnered with Anton du Beke, and survived until the semi-finals. Her management company said: “For many, of course, she will be best (or worst?) remembered for her unforgettable appearances on Strictly Come Dancing, defying the judges week after week as the public delighted in her unsuccessful attempts to follow the choreography of the long-suffering Anton Du Beke.”
Later Political Involvement
Widdecombe was a prominent Eurosceptic and supported the Vote Leave campaign during the 2016 Brexit referendum. She joined the Brexit Party in 2019 and served as an MEP for South West England until 2020. In 2023, she joined Reform UK, the successor to the Brexit Party, and served as its immigration spokesperson.
Personal Beliefs
She was known for her socially conservative views, opposing abortion and LGBT rights. She claimed to have no interest in sex and never married. A statement from Cloud9 Management said: “Her life and career were driven by her strong Christian values and commitment to public service. She loved the cut and thrust of political debate and, 16 years after leaving Parliament, was still actively campaigning for Reform UK.”
