Strictly ‘axing Bruno Tonioli as judge to keep Anton Du Beke on panel’

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A BBC source has suggested that Strictly bosses don’t want to renew Bruno Tonioli’s contract as a judge on the BBC show

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Strictly bosses are reportedly axing Bruno Tonioli as a judge in order to keep Anton Du Beke on the panel.

The 66-year-old 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 judging 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, his role was cut and he was replaced by professional dancer Anton Du Beke.

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.

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 less lower than Bruno’s.”

Bosses are reportedly keen to keep Anton Du Beke as a judge (

Image:

PA)

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.

Anton has appeared as a pro dancer on the show for years (

Image:

Getty Images) Bruno could be ditched after 16 years (

Image:

Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)

Reportedly, Craig has previously pointed out 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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