Dame Arlene Phillips could be set to re-join Strictly Come Dancing’s judging panel after being axed from the programme more than a decade ago.
The 78-year-old choreographer appears to be in demand following reports that she’s also signed up for the latest series of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!
A TV source explained to the Mirror that the BBC were keen for the former panel remember to return to her post for a one off show – following her stint on the ITV show.
The insider told the publication: “They want her back as a one-off stunt after she’s been with Ant and Dec.
(Image: PA Archive/Press Association Ima)
“To have Dame Arlene make a special appearance on Strictly would suggest there’s no bad blood any more.
“It would look good after they got rid of her all those years ago.”
Daily Star has contacted Arlene’s representative for a comment.
There has been much speculation about the person who would take over from John Barrowman on Dancing On Ice and this week Arlene’s name was thrown into the mix.
(Image: Getty Images)
Rumours broke out recently that Arlene had been involved in “advanced talks” with ITV, with the possibility of replacing John on the show.
A source told The Sun: “The fact that Arlene is a mature woman with decades of experience in the dance world is seen as a huge asset for Dancing on Ice.
“In contrast to what people see as her harsh treatment by Strictly, ITV bosses see her seniority as a brilliant way to create a diverse panel of experts on the show.”
(Image: BBC)
They added: “It means the DOI judges are now made of two men and two women spanning an extensive age range.”
Arlene’s last TV gig was on Strictly Come Dancing 11 years ago after the starlet was axed and replaced by Alesha Dixon.
The theatre director and talent scout had held her post on the BBC programme since 2004 – when the glitzy production first aired.
At the time, furious fans alleged the dance instructor had been asked to leave because of her age, however the BBC has always strongly denied such claims.
According to the Mirror, Arlene previously opened up about leaving the show, explaining: “I’ve never really been given a real reason. I don’t think I will ever know the answer,
“Certainly after Strictly I was in a very vulnerable situation.”
For more of the latest showbiz news from Daily Star, make sure you sign up to one of our newsletters here.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
