Bruno waltzes off panel … Du Beke dances on

BRUNO Tonioli has left Strictly Come Dancing and will be replaced on the judging panel by Anton Du Beke.

The 66-year-old Italian dancer and choreographer has been a judge since the popular celebrity ballroom show launched in 2004, but said travel issues meant that “unfortunately” he could not remain on the panel.

The judges for the upcoming 20th series of the popular show will feature Du Beke, as well as returning favourites Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse.

Professional dancer Du Beke sat on the judging panel last year while Tonioli, who is a judge on the American series Dancing With The Stars, was unable to take part due to “uncertainty over international travel restrictions” as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Du Beke said of his role: “Woohooo! This is BRILLIANT news. Everyone knows how much I absolutely love the show and I’m utterly delighted to be continuing as a regular judge. And I get to make the final again – now I know how Giovanni feels!”

Revel Horwood, who now becomes the only remaining original member of the Strictly judging line-up, said he was thrilled to be returning and added: “It’s going to be fab-u-lous!”.

The head judge Ballas said: “Being a judge on Strictly is such a joy and honour for me, and I can’t wait to be back at the studio waving my paddle.”

Tonioli confirmed on The One Show last night that as his US show is streaming live on Disney+ this year, “he cannot really guarantee” he would continue to be able to move between both shows, adding Du Beke “deserves” to be his replacement.

He added: “Shirley my love, you will be much safer with Anton next to you – no bruising from me.”