Anton Du Beke is "virtually guaranteed" to be Len Goodman’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ replacement.
The professional dancer is currently bookmakers’ favourite to take over from the head judge on the BBC One show and his fellow professional Trent Whiddon believes it’s a "done deal".
He told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "It isn’t official yet, but it may as well be – it’s long been virtually guaranteed that Anton will fill any gaps on the judging panel.
"He’s such a big part of the family and viewers love him, so BBC bosses know there’s no risk of it not working out. The time is right and it’s a done deal."
Trent – who appeared in the 2014 series – also said Anton will be keen to not be dancing every week.
He said: "Anton’s also 50 now, so his dancing is slowing down."
Len, 72, announced he was leaving ‘Strictly’ earlier this month after 12 years and said he was keen for Anton to take over from him.
He explained: "It would be nice if Anton Du Beke took over – someone from the world of ballroom rather than stage or theatre dancing."
And, although bosses are devastated to see him go, producers are determined to give Len the best send off by making his final series the "most spectacular" yet.
Louise Rainbow, Executive Producer of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ said: "Whilst we will be sad to say goodbye to Len, as our way of saying thank you, we are all determined to make this series the most spectacular and most glittery."
Anton Du Beke ‘virtually guaranteed’ to be Strictly judge
