Strictly judges 2022 shake-up? Everything we know so far as Craig and Shirley weigh in on latest season

Strictly judges 2022—as two members of the judging panel blab about the upcoming series, many believe lineup is already set in stone

Strictly Pirates of the Caribbean performance blows judges away in week 3, gaining highest ever week 3 scores.
(Image credit: Strictly Come Dancing/BBC)

A shake-up to the Strictly judges lineup may be on the cards, as two established panelists weigh in on who is and isn't coming back this season. As more information comes to light it appears that big changes may be in store for the series in 2022.

It's been a week of big news for the hit show as Strictly professionals confirmed their relationship and the next season's professionals were announced. Now, the Strictly Come Dancing 2021 judges are weighing in on who'll be ranking the next season's contestants.

The ink has barely dried on the last call sheet of Strictly 2021, but fans are already thirsty for the next installment of the hit dancing competition. Loyal viewers are so invested in the contestants, professionals, and of course the judges, that every single element of the show needs to be just right.

Craig Revel Horwood appears to have spilled the beans on at least one judge for the next series as he spoke about 2021 newcomer Anton Du Beke.


Speaking to a live audience during his All Balls and Glitter tour he said, "I really love Anton. I think he is fantastic."

Craig added, "I think last year he did a great job on Strictly as a judge. And we have just found out he is going to do it again this year.”

Some concerned fans worry that this spells the end for Bruno Tolioni, who stepped down from the last season owing to COVID-19 travel restrictions. Addressing his absence, his fellow judge added, “I miss his energy. But he always used to come off and say, ‘Darling, I am exhausted.’"

The toll that flying between the UK and US, where he judges Dancing With The Stars, may impact his desire to return to the show. However, Shirley Ballas hinted that it may not actually be curtains for Bruno after all—but there's a key change she'd like to see.

The Mirror reports that speaking at the Royal Television Society Awards, Shirley said, "I hope Anton stays, but we could have five seats." She added, "I just did the tour with Bruno and he was on point and on form. There is nobody like Bruno. He is a force to be reckoned with."

Aoife Hanna
Junior News Editor

Aoife is an Irish journalist and writer with a background in creative writing, comedy, and TV production.

Formerly woman&home's junior news editor and a contributing writer at Bustle, her words can be found in the Metro, Huffpost, Delicious, Imperica and EVOKE.

Her poetry features in the Queer Life, Queer Love anthology.

Outside of work you might bump into her at a garden center, charity shop, yoga studio, lifting heavy weights, or (most likely) supping/eating some sort of delicious drink/meal.