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Who is Richie Anderson on BBC Strictly Come Dancing 2022?

Richie will be part of an all-male dancer partnership in this year's contest.

• 18:45, 23 SEP 2022

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Strictly Come Dancing has made a return to our screens.

From now until Christmas a host of celebrities will take to the dancefloor each week as they try to impress the judges and stay in the competition.

And among those taking part this year is Strictly 'superfan' Richie Anderson. The 34-year-old, who is best known for being a BBC radio and TV presenter, will follow in the footsteps of John Whaite and be part of this year's all-male partnership.

Richie started his radio career at BBC West Midlands where he presented his own show between 2015 and 2020. Since 2019 he has been the weekday travel news reporter on BBC Radio 2.

He has also been a regular presenter on The One Show and this year featured in BBC One’s Platinum Jubilee coverage.

Richie is in a relationship with his partner Dean Eagles and they have been together for 10 years. They recently celebrated an anniversary in Italy.

He posted about the romantic getaway on Twitter on July 23. He wrote: "This time last week, me and my Dean were sailing the Mediterranean on the beautiful @CelebrityCruise celebrating our (early) 10 year anniversary. We had the most amazing adventures #holiday #summer #SaturdayMotivation."

READ MORE: Holly Willoughby says pants have 'never been out of cab' on a night out after Mel C comment on ITV This Morning

Ahead of his Strictly debut, Richie said appearing in the show is an 'honour' and 'dream come true.'

He said: "I am a Strictly Come Dancing superfan and I've dreamed about doing this for years. To me, Strictly is like the equivalent of like a warm log fire on a winter night, it just makes my soul glow. As soon as I hear the first few chords of the iconic theme tune, I just feel pure escapism and I’m in my happy place. So to be part of that is just a massive honour."

Richie said dancing has never come naturally to him - and described his moves when he was younger as being 'like Bambi on ice.'

Richie added: "When I was seven, I used to go to an after school dance club at my local church. My mum sent me there as she wanted to improve my balance, because she said I used to be like Bambi on ice. I went to this dance club for about eight weeks and it somehow got worse. So I went and played football instead.

"But I can do every single Steps routine, so if there are any transferable skills between 5,6,7,8 and an Argentine Tango, you might as well give me the Glitterball now.

"I also once came second in a talent competition in Benidorm, I got on stage and I did a Spice Girls routine."

However, Richie has been preparing hard for the show and has been watching YouTube videos of previous dancers to get some tips.

He said: "I started watching old YouTube videos of previous contestants, but I had to stop because I was thinking “I can't do that!” So my preparation is to just pretend it's not happening. Just pretend I'm turning up every Saturday and I'm going to the local disco, dancing with a handsome man and then I'm going home. I'm taking the pressure off by thinking that way!"

Away from his presenting duties West Brom fan Richie is a keen footballer and played for Sunday League team for Coombs Wood F.C.

In 2018 Richie came out as gay to his teammates following a game as part of a film for BBC's The One Show which aimed to show the pressures of homophobia in the sport. The film showed his teammates hugging him as they supported him.

Speaking on the film Richie said: "I expected it as they’re a good bunch of lads. It probably helped that I scored as well, but I’m so relieved"

"The main thing is, I hope there’s people watching this that are in the same boat I was in, and they’re thinking, ‘You know what? I can do that as well.'"

The celebrities taking part in Strictly this year are Ellie Simmonds, Ellie Taylor, Fleur East, Hamza Yassin, Helen Skelton, James Bye, Jayde Adams, Kaye Adams, Kym Marsh, Matt Goss, Molly Rainford, Richie Anderson, Tony Adams, Tyler West and Will Mellor.

They will be watched and scored by Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and head judge Shirley Ballas.

Strictly Come Dancing launches at 7pm on Friday, September 23, on BBC One before the first live show airs Saturday, September 24, at 6.45pm. The show had been due to launch on Saturday 17 September but was put back six days following the death of the Queen.

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Who is Richie Anderson - BBC Radio 2 presenter announced for Strictly 2022

BBC Radio 2 presenter Richie Anderson has been announced as part of this year's Strictly Come Dancing line-up - with him set to take to the dancefloor in the latest series of the dance competition

• 11:16, 5 Aug 2022

Richie Anderson has been announced as a contestant on this year's Strictly Come Dancing , with him joining the likes of Kym Marsh and Will Mellor on the BBC dance show.

He's an award-winning presenter best known for his role on BBC Radio 2 's Breakfast Show providing the travel bulletins, with him having also hosted his own radio shows previously.

Fans may not realise though that his career extends beyond working alongside Zoe Ball , 51 - who herself competed on Strictly in 2005 and later hosted its spin-off It Takes Two .

As well as working on radio, Richie has presented on TV and is even a former Sunday League footballer - having played as part of Coombs Wood F.C., based in the West Midlands.

It was in his home region that he started his radio career, with him working on BBC WM - initially providing reports from football matches before becoming a presenter.

He joined BBC Radio 2 in 2019 as a travel news reporter for the Zoe Ball Breakfast Show as well as the mid-morning show hosted by Ken Bruce , 71, on the popular radio station.

Richie has since fronted special programmes on BBC Radio and even stepped in for colleague Zoe on her breakfast show earlier this year when she was absent from it.

Richie is a regular contributor to The One Show, with him having notably come out as gay to his football teammates in a segment which was broadcast on the show in 2018.

Through his involvement with the BBC, he's covered events including the Platinum Jubilee and the Eurovision Song Contest in Turin, both of which were held this year.

And it's no secret that he's a "superfan" of Strictly, with him having even been a guest contributor on spin-off show It Takes Two - hosted by Janette Manrara , 38 - last year.

Do you enjoy reading about celebrities? Sign up for all the best celeb news from the Mirror here .

The news that Richie would be taking part in Strictly was confirmed on the Zoe Ball Breakfast Show this morning, with him revealing that he will be dancing with a male partner.

He has said in a statement: "This is a dream come true! I cannot wait to get in those sparkles and sequins and shimmy across the most famous dance floor in the world!"

"I'm going to have to cancel my legendary Strictly launch night kitchen party that I throw every year, I’m sure my friends and family will understand," he further commented.

And the radio presenter added: "It's also a massive honour to be part of an all-male dance partnership, it’s so important we have that inclusion on such a huge show."

Strictly Come Dancing will return on BBC One this autumn.

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Who is Richie Anderson? Get to know the Strictly Come Dancing and Radio 2 star

Radio 2 dj and tv presenter richie anderson is the latest star to join this year’s strictly come dancing line-up alongside fellow contestants will mellor and kym marsh.

• 10:28, 5 AUG 2022

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It’s nearly been a year since Rose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni Pernice found success on Strictly Come Dancing and took home the infamous Glitterball trophy, and now a new group of famous faces are looking to put their dance moves to the test.

After announcing that the hit BBC show would hit our screens in September, the contestants for the 2022 series have been being unveiled thick and fast .

Most recently, radio presenter Richie Anderson announced that he would be appearing on Strictly Come Dancing alongside fellow contestants Will Mellor and Kym Marsh.

But who is Richie and where will viewers know him from? Let’s take a peek…

Fans of Radio 2 may be familiar with Richie as he presents the travel bulletins on Zoe Ball's Breakfast Show and has also hosted a variety of shows on the station, including the coverage of this year’s Eurovision.

During his time on the station, Richie has proved that he has what it takes to tear up the dance floor and joined Strictly presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly as part of the duo’s Comic Relief Danceathon in 2019.

More recently, Richie showed off his moves once again when he joined Sophie Ellis-Bextor for her Kitchen Disco Danceathon last November .

Away from radio, Sunday league footballer Richie is often seen on The One Show and received an RTS Award for 'Best Short-Form Presenter’ in 2018 after shining a light on homophobia in the sport and personally coming out to his teammates.

The TV personality also played a part in the BBC’s coverage of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee alongside Capital Breakfast presenter Roman Kemp.

Reflecting on the opportunity, Richie wrote on Instagram: “The concert was so beautiful and emotional.

“Then afterwards I was invited to a drinks reception inside Buckingham Palace where I got to meet Prince William, Prince Edward, Princess Beatrice and @aliciakeys A moment that will live with me forever.”

Originally from the West Midlands, Richie headed back to his home city of Birmingham last month where he took part in the Commonwealth Games as part of the Queen’s Baton relay.

Outside of the spotlight, radio DJ Richie has been in a relationship with partner Dean Eagles and the pair have been together for nearly 10 years.

After revealing that he’d be appearing on the show during an episode of Zoe Ball's Breakfast show, Richie also announced that he would be part of an all-male partnership.

“This is a dream come true! I cannot wait to get in those sparkles and sequins and shimmy across the most famous dance floor in the world! Strictly is the ultimate feel-good show, as soon as I hear that iconic theme tune it’s just pure escapism,” he said.

“I’m going to have to cancel my legendary Strictly launch night kitchen party that I throw every year, I’m sure my friends and family will understand.

“It’s also a massive honour to be part of an all-male dance partnership, it’s so important we have that inclusion on such a huge show,” he added.

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Richie Anderson: Who is the Strictly Come Dancing 2022 contestant?

Bbc’s own radio presenter is one of the featured celebrities in this year’s competition, article bookmarked.

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It’s time to put on your dancing shoes... Strictly Come Dancing is back.

The hit BBC reality series has unveiled a whole new roster of contestants for 2022, including TV presenters, athletes, and pop stars.

You can check out the full line-up here .

Among the contestants is Richie Anderson , who is coupled up with Giovanni Pernice.

Anderson is best known for presenting the weekday travel bulletin on BBC Radio 2’s Breakfast Show with Zoe Ball. In May, he covered the Eurovision Song Contest from Turin, Italy for the station.

The 34-year-old started his radio career with his own show on BBC WM from 2015 to 2020.

He’s a former Sunday League footballer, where he played for Coombs Wood FC. After a game in 2018, he came out as gay to his teammates as part of a film for BBC’s The One Show , for which he is a regular presenter.

Speaking about the opportunity to go on the show, Anderson said: “This is a dream come true! I cannot wait to get in those sparkles and sequins and shimmy across the most famous dance floor in the world! Strictly is the ultimate feel-good show, as soon as I hear that iconic theme tune it’s just pure escapism.

“I’m going to have to cancel my legendary Strictly launch night kitchen party that I throw every year, I’m sure my friends and family will understand. It’s also a massive honour to be part of an all-male dance partnership, it’s so important we have that inclusion on such a huge show.”

On whether he’s a good dancer, Anderson said his partner, Dean Eagles, told him he “looked like one of those blow up men you get outside the petrol station, with their arms flailing around” and that he has “the hip action of a folded up ironing board”.

Anderson and Pernice scored 23 points in week one for their Cha Cha Cha to “I’m Your Man” by Wham!.

Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday 1 October at 6.30pm on BBC One.

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Richie Anderson Wiki, Age, Husband, Parents, Family, BBC Salary, Net Worth, Height, Partner, Married, Gay, Asian, Nationality

Table of Contents

Richie Anderson Biography – Richie Anderson Wiki

Richie Anderson is an English television and radio presenter. He’s an RTS award-winning presenter best known for his well-established role on BBC Radio 2’s Breakfast Show, presenting the travel bulletins as well as hosting a wide variety of his own shows. In May 2022, he traveled to Turin to cover the Eurovision Song Contest for the station. A regular presenter on The One Show, he is often seen on BBC One and was proud to be part of the channel’s recent Platinum Jubilee coverage.

He joined BBC Radio 2 in 2019 as a travel news reporter for the Zoe Ball Breakfast Show as well as the mid-morning show hosted by Ken Bruce on the popular radio station.

Anderson started his radio career on BBC Radio WM shortly after completing his University of Leeds’ journalism degree – initially providing reports from football matches before becoming a presenter. He left in January 2021 to concentrate on his Radio 2 career in London. He said: “I was at university when I first wrote to WM to see if I could do some work experience and it all started from there – I’m so glad they took a chance on me.

“I used to have a cassette player and would tape the ‘It’s a goal jingle’ and pretend to be Paul Franks hosting the football phone in handing over to commentator ‘Reago’ (Mark Regan).

“The next thing, I’m meeting the people I’d grown up with idolising and found they were all a great team – Franksy’s voice is so distinctive and he’s such a lovely man.

“When I joined, the first time I tried to do a vox pop (asking people questions in the street) I had the settings wrong and we couldn’t use what I’d got, but everyone was so lovely about that.

“I got the chance to do seven early-morning Saturday breakfast shows from 5 am to 6 am and absolutely loved it and cried in the office when they told me I could do a Saturday afternoon show, I just couldn’t believe I’d been given the opportunity.

“I’ve always found people really willing to help and offer advice, whether at WM or Radio 2 and I think that’s really important.

“There are some great people coming through there now like Henry Liston and Rakeem Omar.”

Richie Anderson Age

He was born Richie Stephen Anderson on 13 October 1987 in Smethwick, Birmingham, England.

Richie Anderson Parents

Anderson’s parents are based in Smethwick. “Dad fixes windows and doors and mum works in a cash and carry. They’ve both keen key workers all along and they gave me my work ethic.”

Richie Anderson Family

Anderson grew up with his brother Jordan in Smethwick where his family still live.

Richie Anderson Gay

Presenter Richie Anderson is openly gay. He came out to his Sunday league teammates at Coombs Wood FC in a short film for The One Show in 2018. The film was an important piece of television that won an RTS award.

“I’ve always played football, but I’ve actually left teams and moved on in the past when I thought teammates might suspect I was gay, so this was a big deal for me. I’m so proud of it. The response has been amazing and if it makes even one person feel like it’s going to be okay then it’s worth it.”

Richie Anderson Husband

Is Richie Anderson married? Anderson is in a relationship with his partner Dean Eagles. They have been together for 10 years and recently celebrated their 10th anniversary in Italy.

On July 23, 2022, Anderson shared about the romantic getaway on Twitter, writing: “This time last week, me and my Dean were sailing the Mediterranean on the beautiful @CelebrityCruise celebrating our (early) 10 year anniversary. We had the most amazing adventures #holiday #summer #SaturdayMotivation.”

Richie Anderson Strictly Come Dancing 2022

BBC Radio 2 presenter Richie Anderson is the third celebrity contestant confirmed for the twentieth series of Strictly Come Dancing. The multi-award-winning entertainment show will return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer for its 20th series in September 2022, once again bringing glitter, glamour and glorious dancing to homes across the nation.

Anderson said: “This is a dream come true! I cannot wait to get in those sparkles and sequins and shimmy across the most famous dance floor in the world! Strictly is the ultimate feel good show, as soon as I hear that iconic theme tune it’s just pure escapism. I’m going to have to cancel my legendary Strictly launch night kitchen party that I throw every year, I’m sure my friends and family will understand. It’s also a massive honour to be part of an all-male dance partnership, it’s so important we have that inclusion on such a huge show.”

Anderson will become the third celebrity contestant to compete as part of a same-sex couple, following Nicola Adams and John Whaite.

He said: “I remember watching Nicola Adams do it a couple years ago and John Whaite last year, and I remember just thinking – me growing up when I was coming to terms with what I am or what I’m not – it would have been amazing for me to see something like John and Johannes and Nicola and Katya on such a big show.”

Richie Anderson Strictly Come Dancing Partner

The show has yet to reveal which pro dancer will be partnered up with Anderson, but those announcements are typically saved for a closer date to the season premiere. Anderson will partner up with a male professional dancer. He’s following in the footsteps of season 18 stars Nicola Adams and Katya Jones, as well as season 19 runners-up John Whaite and Johannes Rabede.

Richie Anderson Nationality

Anderson is of British nationality.

Richie Anderson Accent

Richie Anderson speaks with a Midlands’ accent. He is proud of his accent: “The great thing about a Midlands’ accent is that people do know where you are from and it’s really friendly, too. I love accents like the one Alison Hammond has and will never water mine down and never change it for anybody. I am really proud of how I speak.”

Is Richie Anderson Asian?

Anderson is English. He was born in City Hospital.

Richie Anderson Instagram

Richie Anderson’s Instagram is @iamrichieanderson .

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Who is Richie Anderson?

• Joanne Kavanagh
• Caroline Peacock
• Published : 6:23, 2 Aug 2023
• Updated : 17:25, 2 Aug 2023

RICHIE Anderson is best known for his radio stints on Radio 2.

On August 2, 2023, it was announced that he had joined the lineup of Celebrity MasterChef.

Richie Anderson  is a TV and radio personality who works for the BBC.

He is a former Sunday League footballer who played for Coombs Wood FC.

Richie has appeared on a string of BBC TV shows including The Weakest Link and The One Show.

He was also part of BBC1’s presenting team for coverage of the Platinum Jubilee’s Party at the Palace .

What is he known for?

Richie presents the travel reports on weekday mornings on Radio 2.

He's known for his banter with presenters Zoe Ball and Ken Bruce - as well as always getting maximum points on PopMaster .

He’s also been a guest reviewer on Strictly: It Takes Two, and first met Zoe when she was getting ready to present the show.

In 2020, Richie joined fellow presenters Jo Whiley and Kate Bottley in completing three triathlons in three days to raise money for Sport Relief.

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Richie, who was brought up in Smethwick, near Birmingham, is active on social media.

You can follow him on Instagram @iamrichieanderson and on Twitter @richie_anderson.

Is Richie married and does he have children?

In 2018, Richie came out as gay to his teammates after playing a game of football.

It was part of a film for The One Show, highlighting the pressures of homophobia in the sport.

Richie has been with his partner Dean Eagles since 2012.

When did he take part in Strictly?

On August 5, 2022, Richie shocked presenter Zoe on Radio 2 by announcing that he would be taking part in Strictly 2022.

Speaking to the BBC he said: "I don’t know anything at the moment, but I can confirm that I will be doing the all-male partnership, which is just so incredible."

He added that the bosses of Strictly gave him the choice of dancing with a man or a woman, but his partner Dean told him he had to dance with a man.

However, his journey on the show was cut short as he was the second contestant to leave to the competition on October 9, 2022.

Richie and his dance partner Giovanni Pernice danced the samba to Hakuna Matata from The Lion King.

The pair received 27 points , which meant they were placed eighth on the leaderboard.

And after an intense dance-off against Fleur East and her dance partner Vito Coppola , it was Richie and Giovanni who said goodbye to the dance floor for good.

Speaking about his Strictly experience, Richie said: "Do you know what as a strictly fan I always thought it was a magical thing to be a part of, and being here it really is.

"And it’s not just the people that you see on camera, the judges, and you [Tess Daly] and Claud and the amazing people that I’ve got to meet on this show.

"The people behind the scenes in hair, make up, costume, Tasha our runner, Stef, Jas, everybody. I also want to thank this guy [Giovanni] as well, he’s been so amazing, and i feel so lucky that I’ve got to dance with you every day.

Read more on the Irish Sun

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Kellie Harrington reveals how she & Mandy celebrated gold medal late into night

"Not only are you a fantastic dancer but you are also a fantastic guy on top of that.

"I want to thank all my family and friends and my other half Dean who is in the audience, I love you so much.”

• BBC Radio 2
• Celebrity MasterChef
• Strictly Come Dancing 2019
• Richie Anderson

Radio 2 star Richie Anderson joins Strictly Come Dancing 2022 lineup

Richie Anderson is the third confirmed Strictly Come Dancing 2022 contestant!

The BBC has revealed that the latest star joining the Strictly Come Dancing 2022 lineup will be radio and TV presenter Richie Anderson.

What's more, he'll be following in the footsteps of Strictly 2021 runner-up, John Whaite , as Richie will be taking part in another all-male partnership.

Richie Anderson is best known for his established role on the Radio 2 Breakfast Show, presenting travel bulletins and hosting a wide variety of his own shows. He was in Turin earlier this year to cover the 2022 Eurovision Song Contest for the station. 

Aside from BBC Radio, Richie's also a regular presenter on The One Show and is often seen on BBC One, including his part in the channel's Platinum Jubilee coverage earlier this year.

Richie is absolutely thrilled to be joining the line-up for Strictly 's 20th series. He said: "This is a dream come true! I cannot wait to get in those sparkles and sequins and shimmy across the most famous dance floor in the world. Strictly is the ultimate feel good show, as soon as I hear that iconic tune it's just pure escapism. 

"I'm going to have to cancel my legendary Strictly launch night kitchen party that I throw every year, I'm sure my friends and family will understand. It's also a massive honour to be part of an all-male dance partnership, it's so important we have that inclusion on such a huge show."

The first two Strictly 2022 stars were revealed on Thursday, August 4 to be actors Will Mellor and Kym Marsh. 

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Soap fans will likely recognise the pair, as both are former Coronation Street stars, though Will has also had roles in a range of shows including Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps, Line of Duty and Broadchurch, and Kym is a presenter on Morning Live and is set to star in Waterloo Road season 11, too!

There's still plenty more celebs yet to be announced for this year's competition. Thanks to the number of professionals signed up this year, we know that the 20th series of the BBC dancing show is set to feature the biggest lineup in Strictly Come Dancing history .

Strictly Come Dancing  2022 returns this Autumn on BBC One. Previous episodes are available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

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Martin was a Staff Writer with WhatToWatch.com, where he produced a variety of articles focused on the latest and greatest films and TV shows. Now he works for our sister site Tom's Guide in the same role.

Some of his favorite shows are What We Do In The Shadows , Bridgerton , Gangs of London , The Witcher , Doctor Who , and Ghosts . When he’s not watching TV or at the movies, Martin’s probably still in front of a screen playing the latest video games, reading, or watching the NFL.

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Richie Anderson: Strictly star’s parents, partner and partnership with Giovanni revealed

He's dancing with the reigning champion.

Strictly has welcomed  Richie Anderson among the dancing celebrity ranks this series.

The BBC presenter is a confirmed and dedicated Strictly Come Dancing devotee who has previously appeared on It Takes Two .

However, Richie is taking his fandom to the next level this year as he busts out the big moves alongside the rest of the 2022 line-up while millions watch on!

Want to know more about Richie Anderson? Then read on for answers to the most searched-for questions posed about him.

Richie Anderson on taking part in Strictly Come Dancing

A thrilled Richie declared signing up for the show was “a dream come true”.

And this certainly looked to be true when he strutted his stuff to Wham!’s I’m Your Man in week one with partner Giovanni Pernice .

“Strictly is the ultimate feel good show, as soon as I hear that iconic theme tune it’s just pure escapism,” he said.

“It’s also a massive honour to be part of an all-male dance partnership. It is so important we have that inclusion on such a huge show.”

Are Richie and Giovanni pals?

Rumours have been rife about friction between the pair, with Giovanni said to be frustrated by Richie’s lack of listening.

However, on It Takes Two the pair ruled out rumours of a rift.

Speaking directly into the camera, the pro dancer said: “There is no problem between us, we are having a good time. Forget about what you’re writing, it’s not true.

What age is Richie Anderson?

Richie was born in October 1987.

This means Richie is currently 34 – and should celebrate his birthday on the show, all being well!

Where is Richie Anderson from?

Richie hails from Smethwick, a town in Sandwell in the West Midlands.

He’s a supporter of West Bromwich Albion football club and was previously a Sunday League footballer himself.

He played for Coombs Wood FC, which is based in Halesowen in Rowley Regis.

Where does Richie Anderson live?

Richie now lives in Northamptonshire.

He lives in the market town of Daventry.

What is Richie Anderson famous for?

Richie Anderson began his radio career at Radio WM. As well as presenting his own Saturday show between 2015 and 2020, he was also a match day reporter known as ‘Roaming Richie’.

In 2018 his moving report for The One Show about coming out to his footy teammates garnered Richie lots of attention… and an RTS award.

And in 2019 Richie became the weekday mornings travel news reporter for BBC Radio 2 .

His Black Country tones are present during Zoe Ball’s Radio 2 Breakfast Show and also Ken Bruce’s mid-morning show.

Viewers may also recognise Richie from his appearances on the likes of House of Games and The Weakest Link , too.

Richie Anderson on Radio 2 and beyond on the BBC

As well as hosting the travel bulletins on Radio 2, Richie has also presented his own shows.

These include the Girl Bands v Boy Bands interview series with pop legends. Richie was part of BBC Radio 2’s Big Bee Challenge in 2021.

And in May 2002 he covered the Eurovision Song Contest from Turin in Italy.

He has appeared several times on the box as a reporter for The One Show.

And Richie was also memorable presence as he presented BBC One’s coverage of the Platinum Jubilee alongside Roman Kemp .

Richie Anderson and Children in Need

Richie has completed a number of challenges for Children in Need to help raise funds for the charity drive.

These include a 250-mile bike ride and taking part in a 24 hour karaoke marathon.

Richie got involved after visiting West Midlands bereavement charity Edward’s Trust and Sandwell Young Carers. He also met children on a sickle cell ward.

Richie said at the time: “The bike ride was particularly tough. It sent me on a roller coaster. I cried about 85 times, but it was those charities and those children that kept me going.”

He also joined fellow Radio 2 presenters Jo Whiley and Kate Bottley to take part in Sport Relief in 2020, taking on three triathlons in three days.

Richie Anderson on ‘coming out’ film

Richie’s short film showing him telling his fellow Coombs Wood FC players about his sexuality won an RTS award.

He reflected: “I’ve always played football, but I’ve actually left teams and moved on in the past when I thought team mates might suspect I was gay. So this was a big deal for me.”

“I’m so proud of it,” Richie continued.

“The response has been amazing and if it makes even one person feel like it’s going to be okay then it’s worth it.”

Is Richie Anderson married? Who is his partner?

According to reports, Richie has been in a relationship with boyfriend Dean Eagles for a decade.

Richie has previously shared several photos of them together on his Instagram account @iamrichieanderson.

Among them are holiday snaps uploaded in July taking in Spain, Italy and the Mediterranean.

Richie captioned the images: “The most special (early*) 10-year anniversary celebrations with my @deanoeagles.

“Our first-ever cruise and what a way to do it on the beautiful @celebritycruisesuk.”

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Richie Anderson (@iamrichieanderson)

Who are Richie Anderson’s mother and father? Is he close with his parents?

While we’re unsure of Richie’s parents’ names, one thing’s for sure, they’ve helped make him the man he is today.

Reports suggest that he’s close with both his parents, who offered support over his sexuality.

Richie has himself commented on the “realness” of his upbringing and credits this with his strong work ethic.

He has said: “Dad fixes windows and doors and Mum works in a cash and carry. They’ve both been key workers and gave me my work ethic.”

Read more: Strictly 2022 announces Richie Anderson is joining line-up as fans say same thing

Leave us a comment on  our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix   and let us know what you think of this story.

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BBC Strictly reveal Radio 2 star Richie Anderson as the next contestant for 2022

Richie will be part of an all-male partnership

• 08:37, 5 AUG 2022
• Updated 08:58, 5 AUG 2022

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Richie Anderson has been unveiled as the next contestant for Strictly Come Dancing 2022.

He will join Kym Marsh and Will Mellor for this year's line-up of celebrities in the ballroom for the BBC show's 20th series.

The BBC Radio 2 host will be in an all-male partnership, which he said is a "massive honour". The presenter went viral in 2018 after coming out to his teammates at Coombs Wood F.C. in a moving documentary.

READ MORE: Kym Marsh joins Will Mellor as the next Strictly contestant on 2022 series

Richie said: "'This is a dream come true! I cannot wait to get in those sparkles and sequins and shimmy across the most famous dance floor in the world! Strictly is the ultimate feel good show, as soon as I hear that iconic theme tune it’s just pure escapism.

"I’m going to have to cancel my legendary 'Strictly' launch night kitchen party that I throw every year, I’m sure my friends and family will understand."

After Nicola Adams and John Whaite, Richie will be the third contestant to be part of a same-sex partnership. He added: "It’s also a massive honour to be part of an all-male dance partnership, it’s so important we have that inclusion on such a huge show."

The radio host reads the travel on various shows for BBC Radio 2 and this year helped them to cover the Eurovision Song Contestant as well as The Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations. Richie can also be seen covering stories on The One Show.

Kym and Will were announced as the first two celebrity contestants yesterday (4 August). Actor Will said he is "chuffed" to be taking part and Kym is "up for the challenge".

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Strictly pro-dancers congratulated Richie on the show's Instagram. Amy Dowden, Dianne Buswell, Gorka Marquez and Nancy Xu wrote: "Welcome Richie."

Fans put: "Yesssssss!!! Omg I’m so excited and so so happy for Richie!! " and "Best news ever! Deffo my winner."

Another put: "I’m beyond excited for this year," and one said: "Absolutely over the moon for you Richie!!! You are gonna smash it!!!"

Strictly Come Dancing will return to BBC One in September with Head judge Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse all back on the judging panel again. Anton Du Beke will also join them after permanently taking over from long-time judge Bruno Tonioli.

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Inside Strictly star Richie Anderson's 10 year relationship with partner Dean

The radio dj is wowing with his moves on the bbc show.

Radio DJ Richie Anderson left the judges, audience and viewers watching at home positively wowed last weekend with his epic quickstep to Dancing Fool on Strictly Come Dancing .

MORE:  Strictly's Molly Rainford rocks lilac two-piece in impressive rehearsal video

The TV personality is paired with professional dancer Giovanni Pernice and is hoping to be the one to lift the iconic Glitterball trophy this year – but how much do you know about Richie's partner of ten years? We found out…

WATCH: Strictly's Richie and Giovanni pay a sweet tribute to Rose Ayling-Ellis

Who is Strictly's Richie Anderson's partner?

Richie's partner is Dean Eagles and the cute couple have been together for almost ten years. The pair generally prefer to keep their private lives away from the public, but Richie has shared snippets of their time together on social media.

In July this year, the BBC radio DJ shared some gorgeous photos of the pair's cruise trip to Europe, a holiday to celebrate their anniversary. Richie captioned the post on Instagram: "The most special (early*) 10 year anniversary celebrations with my @deanoeagles."

"Our first ever cruise and what a way to do it on the beautiful @celebritycruisesuk we even got a selfie with the main man himself @travelwithcaptaintasos."

MORE:  Strictly's Ellie Simmonds reveals she is 'utterly overwhelmed' and nearly lets slip secret

MORE:  Strictly star Tess Daly's school-inspired secrets to toned figure

Richie with his partner Dean

What has Strictly's Richie Anderson said about his partner?

Although Richie and Dean tend to keep their relationship away from the spotlight, the radio DJ revealed that his partner encouraged him to join Strictly.  "When I spoke to my other half Dean, it was our 10-year anniversary, and he was like 'you have to [do it]'.

"And it's the 50th anniversary of Pride in the UK. It would be such a proud moment to be dancing with a male pro." Fortunately, Richie got his wish and he's now in an all-male partnership with Giovanni.

Richie's Strictly partner is Giovanni

What else is there to know about Richie Anderson?

Richie is best known for his radio and TV stints and currently presents the weekday travel news bulletin on The Radio 2 Breakfast Show with Zoe Ball.

As for his TV appearances, the 34-year-old has occasionally featured as a reporter on The One Show and previously contributed as a guest reviewer on Strictly 's spin-off show, It Takes Two.

Speaking about his decision to join Strictly, Richie told the BBC: "This is a dream come true! I cannot wait to get in those sparkles and sequins and shimmy across the most famous dance floor in the world! Strictly is the ultimate feel-good show, as soon as I hear that iconic theme tune it's just pure escapism."

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Who is Richie Anderson’s partner Dean Eagles?

• Caroline Peacock
• Published : 11:12, 10 Oct 2022
• Updated : 15:59, 10 Oct 2022

RICHIE Anderson is best known for his radio and TV stints.

But when he's not presenting the weekday travel news bulletin on The Radio 2 Breakfast Show with Zoe Ball , he is enjoying life with his partner Dean Eagles.

Who is Dean Eagles?

Dean Eagles is well known as the partner of radio presenter, Richie Anderson.

Not much is known about Dean as he tends to keep away from the spot life, but they have been dating since 2012.

However, the radio DJ revealed that his partner encouraged him to join  Strictly.  

Richie said: "When I spoke to my other half Dean , it was our 10-year anniversary, and he was like 'you have to [do it]'.

Read More on Richie Anderson

Strictly fans claim Giovanni is happy to be booted off show after Richie 'feud'

Strictly's Richie Anderson is eliminated in shock dance-off

"And it's the 50th anniversary of Pride in the UK.

"It would be such a proud moment to be dancing with a male pro." 

Fortunately, Richie got his wish and competed in an all-male partnership with Giovanni Pernice.

However, Richie was the second contestant to leave the competition on October 9, 2022.

Dean is on Instagram with over 500 followers but keeps his page private.

You can find his account under the username @deanoeagles

How long have Dean Eagles and Richie Anderson been together?

The pair have been together for 10 years.

In July 2022, the BBC radio DJ shared some photos of the pair's cruise trip to Europe, a holiday to celebrate their anniversary. Richie captioned the post on Instagram: "The most special (early*) 10-year anniversary celebrations with my @deanoeagles."

"Our first ever cruise and what a way to do it on the beautiful @celebritycruisesuk we even got a selfie with the main man himself @travelwithcaptaintasos."

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Anderson came out as gay to his teammates after a football game in 2018 as part of a film for BBC’s The One Show highlighting the pressures of homophobia in sports.

Addressing the camera before speaking to his fellow players, he said: "It's funny really because in every other part of society,  I'm out and proud.  My friends know, my family know, but as soon as I'm here on a football pitch, it just feels like a taboo."

Afterwards, he said he was "so relieved" and hoped he had encouraged people who were in the same position to do the same as him in the future.

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Do they have any children.

Richie and Dean do not have any children.

It is not known if they plan on having any children in the future.

• Celebrity relationships and break ups
• Richie Anderson

RICHIE ANDERSON

• BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show
• The One Show, BBC
• Strictly Come Dancing 202
• RTS Award Winner ‘Best Short Form Presenter’ and ‘Outstanding New Talent’ 2018

Richie Anderson can be found broadcasting to millions of people every morning on the BBC Radio 2 Zoe Ball Breakfast Show . He’s a regular face on The One Show hosting an array of VT’s from hard hitting topical stories to light-hearted comedy with one of his films on him coming out to his football team seeing him win an RTS award. In 2023 he also joined the cast of Channel 4’s popular Celebrity Gogglebox with friend and fellow Brummie Ellie Simmonds, as well as participating in BBC One’s, Celebrity Masterchef !

2022 was an exciting year for Richie as he appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in the second all-male partnership for the show, as well as present backstage at The Queen’s Jubilee: Platinum Party at the Palace alongside Roman Kemp.

Richie has also taken the reins of shows including Scott Mills’ weekday afternoon show and Dermot O’Leary’s weekend breakfast show.

In 2020 Richie raised a whopping £877,000 for BBC Radio 2’s Sport Relief Challenge alongside Jo Whiley and Reverend Kate Bottley. The trio took on freezing cold open water swims, punishing cycle routes and energy sapping runs from Cardiff to Glasgow and ending in Manchester.

On a Saturday afternoon, you will often find Richie on the terraces at The Hawthorns, cheering on his beloved football team West Bromwich Albion.

Photo credit: BBC Radio 2

• Jadeen Singh - Agent