BBC chiefs have confirmed that Anton Du Becket will replace Bruno Tonioli again to serve on the Strictly Come Dancing panel of judges for the upcoming 2022 series.
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Strictly: Bruno praises Anton when he is replaced in the jury
It has been confirmed that Anton Du Becket from Strictly Come Dancing will return as a judge for the upcoming series and beyond.
It was announced on Thursday that original judge Bruno Tonioli had left the BBC show as a judge forever after being temporarily replaced.
He confirmed that this was his decision, and gave his blessing to Anton to replace him.
The BBC has confirmed that the star, who appeared in the British ballroom series for 17 runs from 2004 to 2019, has fallen victim to the pandemic and will be replaced permanently by former professional dancer Anton – while Bruno will stick to Dancing with the Stars.
Strictly Come Dancing’s Anton Du Becket will return as a judge for the upcoming series, it was confirmed
Anton will join regular judges Craig Revel Horwood, Motzi Mabus and Shirley Ballas as a new group of celebrities will appear on the dance floor this fall.
Anton told the news: “Uuuuuu! This is BRILLIANT news. Everyone knows how much I love the show and I am extremely pleased to continue to be a regular judge.”
He added: “And I will reach the final – now I know how Giovanni feels!” referring to the professional dancer Giovanni Pernice.
It was announced on Thursday that original judge Bruno Tonioli had left the BBC show as a judge (
Image:
BBC)
Chief Justice Shirley said of his return: “Being a judge in Strictly is such a joy and an honor for me and I can’t wait to go back to the studio, swinging my paddle.
“Every year, the wonderful production team surpasses itself and I know they have great plans for 2022. I’m so excited to get started.”
Craig, who has been in the panel from the beginning, said: “I’m excited to be back in Strictly, I can’t believe this will be my 20th series! It will be Fab-u-lous! ”
Anton will join Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Chief Justice Shirley Ballas
Motzi commented: “Last year’s Strictly series was one of the highlights of my career, it had such a real impact that it was amazing to see. I’m so proud to be a part of this show and I’m looking forward to coming back for my fourth series! “
Bruno spoke about leaving The One Show on Thursday, but said he would never rule it out for his return – as he hopes to work with Strictly again.
He said, “I miss him so much,” before adding, “Because of the travel situation, I can’t guarantee I’ll be there.
“They need continuity, that’s my decision and I think Anton has done a fantastic job and deserves to be in this place.”
He continued: “Anton, you did a fantastic job, you deserve it. Go on, be proud of me, but you’re done for me nonetheless.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to the BBC later this year.
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