Bruno Tonioli's role as Strictly judge could be officially axed as he could be permanently replaced by Anton Du Beke.
Strictly Come Dancing bosses are reportedly axing Bruno as BBC bosses are reportedly 'really happy' with Anton.
Having starred on the programme for 16 years, Bruno hasn't made an in-person appearance on Strictly for two years due to the pandemic but was believed to be returning.
The Italian choreographer is also on the judging panel for Dancing with the Stars in the US, which is why he appeared on Strictly via video link in 2020.
But come 2021, the 66-year old's spot on Strictly was replaced by dancer Anton Du Beke.
Yet despite fellow judge Craig Revel Horwood backing his return, it looks like bosses want Anton to stay.
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.
The Mirror has reached out to Strictly for comment.
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."
