Anton Du Beke
The TV presenter, 54, was partnered with Esther, 80, for the second series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2004.
Talking on her podcast, Anton made the surprising claim about his former dance partner.
Reminiscing about the first time he met her, Anton relayed how delighted he was to be partnered with the journalist.
He said: I m going to tell you a little story about Esther Rantzen, the busiest woman in the world.
Anton Du Beke has opened up on his time dancing with Esther Ranzten on Strictly (Image: GETTY/BBC)
Anton Du Beke claimed that the Dame missed the first week of rehearsal to attend lunches and meeting (Image: PA)
This is exactly Ruthie, Anton had replied. I love Ruth - she s hilarious.
He went on to discuss what taking part in Strictly was really like, with long hours in rehersals ahead of the live Saturday shows.
He commented: You get tired and emotional about everything. It s hard, hour after hour, it not going in, Still can t do it . Try it again .
Anton du Beke and Ruth Langsford were partnered up in Strictly 2017 (Image: BBC)
Anton du Beke and Ruth Langsford are firm friends (Image: ITV)
Anton du Beke and Ruth Langsford were eliminated in seventh place (Image: EXPRESS)
Continuing to quote what he d say to his celebrity parnters, Anton told Emma: Not bad, let s try it again , OK . Similar, one more time. Here we go .