Anton Ferdinand, a former professional footballer and a familiar face in sports media, continues to captivate audiences, this time as a contestant on the seventeenth series of Dancing On Ice. Known for his defensive prowess on the field and his resilience off it, Anton’s journey from Peckham to prominence is one of determination and transformation. Here’s an in-depth look at his life, career, and personal achievements.
Early Life and Football Career
Born on February 18, 1985, in Peckham, London, Anton Ferdinand grew up in a family passionate about football. His parents, Janice Lavender and Julian Ferdinand, hail from Ireland and St. Lucia, respectively, blending diverse cultural influences in their household. Anton joined the prestigious West Ham United academy at the tender age of nine and signed his first professional contract in 2002.
Over a career spanning nearly two decades, Anton made his mark at clubs including West Ham, Sunderland, Queens Park Rangers, Bursaspor, Antalyaspor, Reading, and Southend United. He also represented England at the under-21 level, showcasing his skills on the international stage. Anton retired from professional football in July 2019, closing a chapter that featured impressive defensive performances and memorable moments on the pitch.
Family and Personal Life
Anton married Lucy in a private ceremony in 2016, and the couple shares three children: Flynn, born August 10, 2013, Lilah, born February 20, 2017, and Farron, born February 16, 2022. Balancing his professional commitments and family life, Anton often emphasizes the importance of structure and shared experiences with his children.
Reflecting on his participation in Dancing On Ice, Anton shared that the decision was motivated by his desire to inspire his daughter, Lilah, who loves dance and performing arts. He remarked, “My son always had my football to shout about, so this will give my daughter and me something to share.”
Transition to Media and Advocacy
Post-retirement, Anton transitioned seamlessly into the world of sports media. He has appeared on platforms such as talkSPORT, Sky Sports, BT Sport, and IMG, lending his expertise and insights to football discussions. Beyond punditry, Anton made headlines for his BBC One documentary, Anton Ferdinand: Football, Racism, and Me, which shed light on the challenges he faced during his career, including a high-profile controversy involving alleged racial abuse from Chelsea’s John Terry.
The documentary also explored broader issues of racism in football, highlighting Anton’s commitment to social justice. Speaking about the project, he stated, “I know some people don’t like the fact players and coaches take the knee, but for me, that’s a positive because it keeps the conversation going.”
Anton is also an athlete ambassador for Right To Play, an NGO dedicated to empowering vulnerable children through the transformative power of play. His involvement underscores his dedication to making a positive impact beyond the football field.
Net Worth and Financial Success
As of 2025, Anton Ferdinand’s net worth is estimated at $4 million. His wealth stems from his football career, media appearances, and advocacy work. Despite the challenges he has faced, Anton’s financial and professional success exemplifies his resilience and adaptability.
Dancing On Ice and New Challenges
In 2025, Anton stepped into a completely different arena by joining Dancing On Ice. The former footballer expressed excitement and nervousness about the challenge, admitting it was “so far out of my comfort zone.” However, he also emphasized the importance of structure and focus, which he missed after retiring from football. “Dancing On Ice will give me that focus,” he said, adding that he was excited to embark on this journey for his family, particularly his daughter.
Anton’s older brother, Rio Ferdinand, was among the first to cheer him on, responding enthusiastically to Anton’s announcement on social media. The brothers share a close bond, having both played at the highest levels of football and achieved significant accolades.
Footballing Family
Anton comes from a family deeply rooted in football. His older brother, Rio Ferdinand, is a legendary figure in English football, known for his stellar career at Manchester United and as England’s captain. Their cousin, Les Ferdinand, is another footballing great who enjoyed a successful career and now works as a pundit. Additionally, their cousin Kane Ferdinand plays professionally for Maidenhead United.
Anton and Rio made history in January 2006 by becoming the first siblings to win the Premier League Player of the Month award. Anton’s defensive skills mirrored Rio’s excellence, and his early performances at West Ham hinted at a promising future.
Advocacy and Legacy
Anton’s advocacy against racism in football is an integral part of his legacy. While he acknowledges that progress has been made, he remains committed to fostering an environment where racial slurs and discrimination have no place. “We’re nowhere near where we want to be,” he said, “but there’s less racism on the streets than there used to be.”
Through his documentary and public appearances, Anton has become a powerful voice for change, using his platform to address important social issues.
Conclusion
Anton Ferdinand’s journey from a young boy in Peckham to a football star and now a media personality and advocate is inspiring. Balancing family, new challenges like Dancing On Ice, and his ongoing commitment to social justice, Anton exemplifies growth and determination. His story is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of using one’s platform for good.