Former Strictly champion, Harry Judd, is being lined up to replace Darcey Bussell after she stepped down from the panel earlier this year.
Ever since Darcey Bussell revealed she was stepping down from Strictly Come Dancing, everyone has been wondering who will replace her.
And now, rumour has it 2011 champion, Harry Judd, could be taking Darcey’s place.
The McFly star – who won the show with professional partner Aliona Vilani – is in talks to replace Darcey on the upcoming series of Strictly.
A source revealed:‘Strictly bosses are desperate to appeal to younger viewers, as they know that is the age group they need to build on.’
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Having taken a risk in casting last year’s YouTube sensation, Joe Sugg, Strictly bosses are said to be keen to keep attracting a younger audience.
‘Last year that was behind the decision to sign up YouTuber Joe Sugg as a contestant. And Harry has millions of young fans thanks to McFly.
‘He is popular, very charismatic and has experience of dancing both on Strictly and in the West End, afterappearing in Rip it Up.’
Harry, 33 – who is married to Izzy Judd and has two young children, Lola, three, and one-year-old Kit - will also resonate with the older viewers.
‘They know that he would also hit the right note with older audiences ashe is very much a family man, he is a dad with two children.
‘Talks are ongoing at the moment, but as it stands, Harry is a firm favourite.’
Having been a judge on the BBC show since 2012, Darcey, 50, announced she was quitting to focus on 'other commitments'.
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Dame Darcey revealed it had been a 'privilege' to work with such a 'talented' team and said that her departure wasn’t because of 'any upset or disagreement,' despite rumours she was fed up of the 'soap opera' scandals that came from the show.
With Harry said to be a 'firm favourite,' other names being thrown in the hat to sit alongside Shirley Ballas, Bruno Tonioli and Craig Revel Horwood include Debbie McGee and RuPaul’s Drag Race star Michelle Visage.
The countdown is on!
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