Strictly in talks with dance-loving TV star, 78, who could become the show’s oldest contestant

DANCE-loving former newsreader Angela Rippon is in talks to waltz in to Strictly at the age of 78 — making her the show’s oldest contestant yet.

Angela has plenty of dance form having hosted the previous incarnation of the BBC show between 1988 and 1991, then returning in 1998 before it ended.

And in 1976 she stunned 27million viewers of Morecambe and Wise’s Christmas special when she emerged from her newsreader’s desk to perform a high-kicking dance routine.

That came in an era when serious journalists never ventured into light entertainment.

But it will not be her first time on the latest run of the show.

She made a cameo appearance last year as part of the BBC’s 100th anniversary celebrations.

And she featured on a Children in Need special in 2011 — the same year she was a contestant on Dancing on Ice.

A source said: “It is such a coup to get Angela.

“The Strictly team loved having her make a cameo on the show last year and that got the ball rolling.

“She was a real hit with viewers and then the bookers reached out to begin discussions about her taking part. It’s not an easy decision for Angela because she knows it would be very gruelling and physically tough, but she is extremely tempted.

“She loves a challenge and feels like this could be great for her. She was Mrs Come Dancing, so what a wonderful thing that she is going to be on Strictly all these years later.

“She is the dream signing. The audience at home will love her and many of them will remember her from her days hosting the show.

“It is incredible that someone of her age is doing it but she loves dancing and the bosses think that she will be a joy to watch.”

During her career Angela has been a BBC newsreader and also fronted the shows Rip Off Britain and Holiday Hit Squad.

She was previously the chairwoman of the English National Ballet and is a patron of the Old Time Dance Society.

TV personality Johnny Ball was Strictly’s previous oldest contestant.

He was 74 when he appeared on the show in 2012.

The full line-up of stars for the new series is expected to be revealed next month.

BBC presenter Angela Scanlon, ex-EastEnders actor Nigel Harman, Waterloo Road star Adam Thomas and Love Island’s Zara McDermott are expected to take part.