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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Entertainment
Rose Hill & Ellie Kemp

BBC Strictly Come Dancing shake-up as show bosses 'prepare to axe judge'

Bruno Tonioli is reportedly being considered for the chop by Strictly Come Dancing bosses in order to keep Anton Du Beke on the panel.

The dance expert, 66, has been unable to appear on the BBC show in person for the last two years due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In 2020, Bruno - who is on the panel for the US version of the dancing show Dancing With The Stars - appeared via video link from his home in LA.

But last year, he was replaced by professional dancer Anton Du Beke,.

READ MORE: Jason Manford claps back as ITV Starstruck viewers complain about the sound

It was believed that Bruno, who has starred on the show for 16 years and is currently on the Strictly tour as a judge, would be returning.

Bruno Tonioli hasn't appeared in person on the show for a number of years (Ian West/PA Wire)

Despite fellow judge Craig Revel Horwood backing his return, it looks like bosses want Anton to stay, according to the Mirror.

A source told The Sun: "We have been told Anton’s contract as a judge is going to be renewed. The bosses were really happy with his performance.

“It also hasn’t escaped their notice his salary is considerably lower than Bruno’s."

They added that there is a "huge amount of affection" for him on the show and that the decision will "ruffle some feathers".

However, because the format of the judging panel worked well last year, it is believed that bosses are reluctant to switch it up again.

Strictly has been contacted for comment.

Anton du Beke was the longest serving dancer on Strictly before moving to the judging panel (BBC)

It comes after claims last December that bosses were keen to keep Anton on the panel after impressing with his step up to judge the competition.

Reportedly, Craig has previously hinted that he wants Bruno back on the panel and believes the chemistry is "flat" without him.

A source previously said: "Craig would love for his pal to return next year and thinks it’s possible now that the world is opening up.

“They have a spark that is difficult to recreate. But Anton has a strong fan base and there is definitely a camp who would like him to stay."

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