Ann Widdecombe, the former Conservative MP and MEP who became a household name on Strictly Come Dancing, has died at the age of 78. A statement from her management, Cloud9 Management, confirmed the news, saying: "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 and Notable Clashes
Widdecombe served as the Conservative MP for Maidstone, later Maidstone and the Weald, from 1987 to 2010. She held several ministerial positions under Prime Minister Sir John Major, including as a Home Office minister. She famously clashed with her colleague Michael Howard, then Home Secretary, describing him as having "something of the night about him." She also faced controversy for defending a policy of chaining pregnant prisoners to their beds.
Post-Parliament Life and Strictly Stardom
After leaving Parliament, Widdecombe appeared on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, partnered with Anton du Beke. Despite poor scores from judges, she reached the semi-finals thanks to public votes, becoming a beloved figure for her determined but uncoordinated performances. Cloud9 Management's statement noted: "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."
Brexit and Reform UK Involvement
A prominent Eurosceptic, Widdecombe supported the Vote Leave campaign in the 2016 Brexit referendum. She joined the Brexit Party in 2019 and served as an MEP for South West England until 2020. She later became a member of Reform UK, the successor to the Brexit Party, and served as its immigration spokesperson. She remained politically active until her death, campaigning for Reform UK and offering forthright views on radio and television.
Socially Conservative Views and Legacy
Widdecombe was known for her socially conservative views, opposing abortion and LGBT rights during her Commons career. She claimed to have no interest in sex and never married. Her management company's statement highlighted her Christian values: "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." Widdecombe was also a patron of animal charities. The statement concluded: "A consummate professional and a delight to work with, indefatigable to the last, we know this news will come as a great shock to the many colleagues and friends she made along the way and our sympathies go to them and her family."
