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Len Goodman’s Strictly exit sparks search for new head judge

He's a viewer favourite!

Since Len Goodman announced that he was quitting Strictly Comes Dancing, the country has been scratching their heads, wondering who could possibly fill his dancing shoes as head judge.

With just six months to go before the smash hit series returns to our screens, producers are said to be desperately trying to find the right man or woman to join Craig Revel Horwood, Bruno Tonioli and Darcey Bussell on the panel.

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And it looks like viewer favourite Anton du Beke is most definitely in the running.

According to reports he has just had a screen test to see if he fits in with the rest of the judges.

But Anton isn’t the only person being tested for the show and insiders say they have to be careful choosing the right person for the job.

“It’s all about chemistry with the other judges but also the viewers have to like them too,” a show insider has told ED! “The viewers love Anton and he would really fit in, but producers are keeping their options open for now.”

As it’s such a sought after role, everyone and their mother has thrown their cap into the mix.

Kristina Rihanoff has said she would love to take on the role and is waiting for the call, while veteran Strictly judge Arlene Phillips giddily told ED! exclusively that she would jump at the chance to return to the show.

“I would be brilliant to replace Len on Strictly. I like to think I’m the obvious choice,” she told Andy West.

“Everyone always tells me that they miss me from the show – I get it every day when I’m in my trackies and trainers in Budgens. They say they really miss me on the panel and would love to see me back on the show.”

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It’s understood that dancer Karen Hardy is also in the running after joining Len and Craig on the recent Strictly tour.


Christian Guiltenane
Freelance Writer