The ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ cast and crew have backed Anton du Beke to replace Dame Darcey Bussell as the new judge on the show.
The 52-year-old professional dancer has been a huge hit with fans of the BBC One celebrity dance contest since it began in 2004, largely thanks to years of being placed with "novelty acts"
And as he’s never a "real contender" to win the coveted Glitter Ball trophy, he is a favourite to take over from the retired ballerina.
A source told The Sun Online: "Loveable Anton is the cast’s favourite choice to take over from Darcey as judge. Some on the show believe it’s time for him to hang up his dancing shoes and sit on the other side of the table.
"Anton is a well-loved professional but it’s felt by many that his glory years are over. He’s often placed with the novelty act and has no chance of getting near the Glitter Ball. He isn’t a real contender any more."
This news comes after Darcey – who became a full-time judge on the show’s 10th series in 2012 – revealed she was stepping away from her spot on the panel alongside head judge Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood and Bruno Tonioli.
The dancer added that she’s enjoyed "every minute" of her time on the show and insisted she’s not leaving because of "of any upset or disagreement".
She said in a statement: "It has been a complete privilege for me to be part of ‘Strictly’, working with such a talented team.
"I have enjoyed every minute of my time and will miss everyone from my fellow judges, the presenters, the dancers, the musicians, the entire back stage team, and especially the viewers of the show, who have been so supportive.
"I am not leaving because of any upset or disagreement at all, I am just stepping away to give more focus to my many other commitments in dance, after seven truly wonderful years that I can’t imagine having gone any better."
Strictly cast and crew back Anton du Beke to replace Darcey Bussell
