Angela Rippon: Broadcasting Legend & Strictly Come Dancing Star

Angela Rippon, Britain’s legendary broadcaster and Strictly Come Dancing star, has launched the nationwide “Let’s Dance!” campaign, championing the vital importance of movement and wellness for all ages. At 81, Rippon continues to set an example, dazzling audiences not just with her broadcasting expertise but also with her boundless energy and positive message about living life to the fullest. Through high-profile appearances, advocacy via the Sport and Recreation Alliance, and speaking openly about her daily routines and healthy habits, she encourages everyone to join the dance for mind, body, and community benefit.

Rippon’s long-standing dedication to journalism, consumer advocacy, and advancing women in media remains undiminished. Her commitment to wellbeing and inclusion shines through every campaign, interview, and public appearance. The nation’s affection for her is stronger than ever, as audiences look to her for wisdom on thriving at every age. As the “Let’s Dance!” movement sweeps the UK, Angela Rippon shows, yet again, how true icons never stop leading the way.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

Angela May Rippon was born on October 12, 1944, in Plymouth, Devon, England. Raised by working-class parents, she developed an early passion for journalism, launching her career with the Western Morning News and joining the BBC in 1966. Her dedication to storytelling and news set the foundation for her future stardom.

Rise to Fame and Career Milestones

Angela’s ascent in broadcasting began when she became the first female permanent newsreader on the BBC’s Nine O’Clock News in 1975, a momentous achievement for British television and women in news. Her poised delivery, clarity, and intelligence won over both audiences and critics.

Major Roles and TV Programmes

Presenter on BBC’s Nine O’Clock News (1975)
Host for Top Gear’s initial series
Presenter for Come Dancing, a precursor to the beloved Strictly Come Dancing
Star on Morecambe and Wise Christmas Shows, winning audiences with her versatility
Co-founder and presenter of TV-am (commercial breakfast TV)
Host of the Eurovision Song Contest (1977)
Presenter of Rip Off Britain for over a decade, focusing on consumer rights and advocacy

Angela didn’t confine herself to hard news. She was regularly involved in magazine shows, panel series, and even dance, showing a unique knack for bridging serious journalism and entertainment.

Recent News and Projects

As of September 2025, Angela continues to shine in the public eye. She played a vital role in the national “Let’s Dance!” campaign, advocating for wellbeing and the transformative power of movement. In fact, her vibrant appearance and energetic routines on Strictly Come Dancing, at nearly 80, captivated the nation and made her the oldest contestant in the show’s history.

She remains active as a TV presenter, contributor, and event host, regularly appearing on the BBC and other media outlets for high-profile features and events. Her most recent projects emphasise wellness, the arts, advocating for dementia awareness, and promoting the benefits of live, active ageing.

Personal Life and Advocacy

Angela Rippon has dedicated equal passion to philanthropy, serving as Vice President of the British Red Cross and supporting causes such as Comic Relief, dementia awareness, and animal welfare. Her book “Fabulous at Fifty and Beyond” encourages graceful, empowered ageing.

She also advises on wellbeing, particularly in relation to physical activity. Angela credits her long, healthy life to daily routines, especially morning stretches, and prioritising physical and mental engagement into her eighties.

Controversies and Challenges

Angela Rippon’s long public life has had its share of scrutiny and obstacles. Among the most trying was her being falsely accused of an affair with Captain Mark Phillips, Princess Anne’s first husband, a period she has described as “the most dreadful time” in her career. The rumours arose when, as a biographer, Angela spent a significant amount of time at Gatcombe Park with the royal couple. She has spoken out about the distress the gossip caused her, emphasising her professionalism and the inaccuracy of such tabloid speculation.

Angela has also been candid about experiencing sexism early in her broadcasting career, recalling incidents where colleagues disrespected her both on and off camera. These events, though deeply unpleasant, never diminished her professionalism, resilience, or achievements.

Awards and Recognition

Angela Rippon has received numerous accolades, including:

OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire, 2004)
Honorary Doctorates from several universities
Royal Television Society Hall of Fame Inductee (1996)
European Woman of Achievement (2002)

These reflect not only her groundbreaking work in broadcasting but also her contributions to charity and the arts.

Life Cycle and Career Impact

From local reporter to national trailblazer, Angela Rippon’s story is one of growth, reinvention, and barrier-breaking. Key stages include:

Local journalism and BBC Plymouth beginnings (1960s)
Rise to the first female permanent national newsreader (1975)
Diversifying into current affairs, consumer journalism, and entertainment (1980s–1990s)
Enduring relevance with prime-time shows, Strictly Come Dancing, and leading national campaigns post-2000

Angela is a living testament to how to remain current, relevant, and influential across decades, embracing change and seeking new opportunities at every stage.

Angela Rippon’s Legacy

Angela Rippon’s impact is profound. She is a mentor and inspiration to countless women—and men, in journalism and broadcasting, and a much-loved figure in British popular culture. Her willingness to tackle new challenges well into her 80s, on a national stage, cements her legacy as a symbol of energy, resilience, and lifelong learning.

FAQs on Angela Rippon

Why is Angela Rippon so famous?
Angela Rippon is renowned as the first permanent female newsreader on BBC national television and for her dynamic presence across TV and radio, bridging news, entertainment, and advocacy.

What TV shows is Angela Rippon known for?
She is best known for the BBC’s Nine O’Clock News, Rip Off Britain, Top Gear, Come Dancing, Holiday Hit Squad, and her historic appearance on Strictly Come Dancing.

What awards has Angela Rippon won?
Angela has received an OBE, the European Woman of Achievement award, and was inducted into the Royal Television Society Hall of Fame, among other honours.

Was Angela Rippon involved in any controversies?
Yes, she faced a notorious tabloid scandal in the 1980s involving false rumours of a royal affair, but no evidence ever supported the claims; she also spoke openly about early workplace sexism.

What are Angela Rippon’s current activities?
Angela remains a prominent TV contributor, wellbeing advocate, and public speaker, spearheading health and activity campaigns like “Let’s Dance!” and making regular guest appearances on BBC and other platforms.

How does Angela Rippon stay so energetic?
She follows a disciplined daily stretching routine, maintains a zest for her work, and believes in the physical and mental benefits of an active lifestyle.

Has Angela Rippon written any books?
Yes, she has authored fourteen books, focusing on lifestyle, ageing, and her broadcasting journey.

Angela Rippon in 2025: New Campaigns, Continued Influence

Angela Rippon remains in the news in 2025—celebrated for her contributions to “Let’s Dance!”, inspiring others to stay active regardless of age, and maintaining a vibrant presence on British and international media. She continues to break stereotypes about aging while paving the way for new generations of broadcasters.