Bruno Tonioli confirms Strictly exit and shares thoughts on his replacement
19.05.2022 - 23:19
/ ok.co.uk
Bruno Tonioli has confirmed that he's left Strictly Come Dancing - and he has given his full backing to his replacement.The 66 year old, who has been a key part of the hit BBC show for 18 years now, missed last year's series due to Covid-related travel restrictions which prevented him from juggling it with his judging responsibilities on Strictly's American counterpart, Dancing With the Stars. Former pro dancer on the show Anton Du Beke sat in his place alongside Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse on the four-strong panel. In an appearance on The One Show tonight, Thursday, May 19, he said he would not be returning and confirmed it was "his decision." "Unfortunately Dancing With The Stars has moved over to Disney+ to stream live," he said.
Speaking about the travel restrictions he was faced with last year, he said: "It was impossible, it really was because the rules changed. Getting through airports was not what it used to be." "I miss it so much," Bruno went on to say of Strictly before adding: "Because of the travel situation I cannot guarantee I’m going to be there." He did though give his unequivocal backing to his replacement. "Anton you've done a fantastic job, you deserve it," he said.
Holding up a 10 score paddle used in the show he said: "It's a 10 from me, carry on. Do me proud, but you've already done it anyway." He then went on to give a message to other fellow judges saying: "Shirley, my love, you'll be much safer with Anton next to you. No bruising from me.
"Motsi, don't worry about Craig, he's only jealous because he cannot wear your clothes. "And Craig, well it's Craig, isn't it. I know all about it.
The website popstar.one is an aggregator of news from open sources. The source is indicated at the beginning and at the end of the announcement. You can
send a complaint on the news if you find it unreliable.