Anton du Beke to step in as Strictly Come Dancing judge?

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief

Published: June 23 2020 | 20:47

Last updated: July 17 2020 | 18:31

Anton du Beke is reportedly a contender to step in and replace Bruno Tonioli on this year's series of Strictly Come Dancing.

Anton du Beke is reportedly in the running to step up as a Strictly Come Dancing judge for this year's show.

The coronavirus pandemic has led to a number of necessary changes for the new series, including limited studio audiences and a mass pre-record of the iconic group dances.

Another difference is likely to come on the judging panel, with regular fixture Bruno Tonioli expected to remain in the US to work on Dancing With The Stars - meaning that he would miss the start of the series.

Among the options on the table include having Tonioli appear by video link or reducing the panel from four to three people for a period, but according to The Mirror, the BBC is looking at the possibility of replacing Tonioli.

The newspaper says that pro dancer Du Beke, who has been on the show since the start and has been previously linked with an upgrade to the panel, is the favourite to take on the role.

Cheryl Cole - judge on the now-axed The Greatest Dancer - is also said to be in the frame.