Craig Revel Horwood is convinced Bruno Tonioli will eventually return to the ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ judging panel.
The 55-year-old TV star is set to feature on this year’s series without Bruno – who will be appearing on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ in the US instead, due to coronavirus-related travel restrictions – but Craig is confident the choreographer will make a "triumphant return" in 2021.
Craig – who has appeared on the show alongside Bruno since 2004 – said: "They might throw guest judges in for fun. Then when everything’s back to normal, Bruno can make his triumphant return!"
In recent weeks, various big-name stars have been mentioned as a possible replacement for Bruno, including Cheryl.
But Craig doubts whether the 37-year-old pop star will appear on the upcoming series.
He told the Daily Star newspaper: "Lovely girl, but I don’t think it will happen."
Earlier this month, Natalie Lowe called for former ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ professionals to replace Bruno on the judging panel.
The 39-year-old ballroom dancer took part in the BBC Latin and ballroom dance competition from 2009 to 2016, and would love to be invited back.
She said: "I’d love to see ex-professionals sit in that fourth chair every week. I love ‘Strictly’, I love everything about dance."
Natalie believes the former pros would make the best judges as they’ve been in the same spot as the contestants.
She said: "I think it is really a good positive thing if you can relate to the celebrity that’s going through each week.
"We’ve been there, we can support. You can be compassionate, you can be encouraging but give constructive criticism. That’s how I would be as a judge if I was asked to be on it. I would love to.
"Who would turn that job down? I mean it’s got to be the most amazing position to be in."