The BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing producers are reportedly keeping Anton Du Beke on the show’s judging panel, meaning Bruno Tonioli might be axed.
Due to the pandemic, the 66-year-old Italian native has not appeared on the BBC show in person for the last two years.
In 2020 Bruno – who judges the US version of the dancing show Dancing With the Stars – appeared via video link from his home in LA.
In 2021, Strictly saw dancer Anton hang up his dancing shoes and take his place at the judging panel alongside Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas and Motsi Mabuse.
(Image: Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
It’s been teased that Bruno, who has starred on the show for 16 years and is currently on the Strictly tour as a judge, would not be returning to the hit BBC show this year.
In an exclusive chat with The Sun, a source said: “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.”
(Image: ABC via Getty Images)
They revealed that there is a “huge amount of affection” for him on the BBC show and that the decision will “ruffle some feathers”.
However, because the judging panel format worked well last year, it is believed that bosses are reluctant to switch it up again.
The announcement comes after the Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood showed his support for welcoming Bruno back to the show.
(Image: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)
Last year the 57-year-old Strictly judge Craig raised concerns that the panel is “flat” Bruno and his vivacious ways.
A source said: “Craig feels the chemistry is a bit flat without Bruno.”
“He brought some pizzazz and expertise to the panel.”
Bruno told The Sun last year he was “sad and frustrated” not to be on Strictly – The Italian dancer will alongside his fellow judges for this year’s tour.
Daily Star has reached out to Strictly for comment.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
