Cheryl Tweedy is set to return to TV with ‘The Greatest Dancer’.
The 34-year-old singer has been heavily tipped to return as a judge on the next series of ‘The X Factor’ but that’s now in doubt as on Tuesday (14.02.18), she filmed a pilot episode for the new BBC programme, in which she will act as a "dance captain" mentor to the hopefuls.
The practice run saw ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ judge Alesha Dixon and Diversity dancer Jordan Banjo take the reins as hosts, while ‘Glee’ star Matthew Morrison and ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ professional Oti Mabuse served on the coaching panel alongside Cheryl.
The format has been created by ‘X Factor’ boss Simon Cowell’s production company, Syco, so its unlikely the music mogul will be too disappointed if Cheryl shuns a return to the singing contest in favour of the BBC’s proposed new primetime Saturday evening entertainment show.
A source told The Sun newspaper: "Cheryl’s always been associated with ITV. She was made a star by ‘Popstars: The Rivals’.
"Moving to the BBC is a huge deal for her. It’s a trial run at this point. But everyone is hoping it’ll get the green light. She’s going to be the star of the show.
"The show is shaping up to be a success. Tuesday was the pilot filming but bosses and Simon have pulled together a strong line-up.
"Alesha and Jordan had great chemistry during the run-through. And Matthew and Oti are trained dancers so are perfect choices alongside Cheryl as ‘dance captains’ or mentors."
It was claimed just a few weeks ago that the ‘Fight For This Love’ singer was top choice to replace Nicole Scherzinger on ‘The X Factor’ and was open to a return.
A source said: "Cheryl is the top choice and she is keen to come on board.
"But as yet, the conversations taking place have been unofficial, because we can’t begin official talks with anyone until the show’s schedule is agreed.
"The bosses need to confirm how long the series will run for and what time it will air each week.
"It is very likely there will be changes in that department from last year, as it is widely felt that last year’s series wasn’t ideally placed to optimise ratings.
"Once those decisions are made and agreed, the bosses will have the green light to start talking to Cheryl officially and discuss contracts with her.
"But this is seen by most of the team as a formality, and even the most cautious have put the chances of her replacing Nicole this year at about 85 per cent.
"It would be a huge shock if it didn’t happen."
Cheryl Tweedy making TV return with BBC show
