EXCLUSIVE: Arlene Phillips says last year’s I’m A Celeb gang ‘still WhatsApp constantly’
Anyone wanting proof that age is just a number need only look at Dame Arlene Phillips. Six months ahead of her 80th birthday, the choreographer and former Strictly Come Dancing judge is as in demand as ever. And when she’s not dancing herself, she is usually lending her expertise to others as part of a hit West End show.
Arlene joined TV presenter Richard Madeley, Emmerdale actor Danny Miller and musician Naughty Boy to brave the Welsh winter at Gwrych Castle last November. A year on from her time in the castle, Arlene’s still in touch with many of her campmates and often finds herself chatting to Olympic diver Matty Lee and TV presenter Louise Minchin.
“I want to be able to inspire confidence in older women,” says Arlene, who’s been with her partner Angus Ion since they met on the set of a Freddie Mercury music video in 1985. “It’s very hard because you’re kind of dismissed at every level – and that is the truth. It isn’t fashionable to be older. It’s fashionable to be younger. Half of my time is spent helping young people. I love and admire them, but I don’t want the older woman to disappear.
Now, with her milestone 80th birthday next May drawing closer, the mum-of-two says she’s going to make sure it’s her biggest bash yet. With such a busy career and family life, it’s unlikely Arlene ever feels lonely – but this is still a subject close to her heart. She teamed up with Wiltshire Farm Foods for its Wishlist Fund, which encouraged people to nominate someone over 55 to enjoy their bucket-list activities for free – the winner will be announced soon. Arlene supports the campaign because the company, which delivers meals across the country, uses local drivers who will “always stop for a chat”.
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