The Strictly Come Dancing judges’ panel is looking and sounding somewhat depleted this evening, with Bruno Tonioli missing.
His absence was quickly explained away as being down to his busy work schedule – and it’s been met with derision by many disappointed viewers who are simultaneously tweeting…
The Italian favourite’s absence was only revealed yesterday, with him explaining he would be forced to skip Saturday and Sunday night’s episodes because of prior work commitments.
Er, isn’t Strictly his work?!
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The 61-year-old explained the work commitment in question is his role as a judge on Dancing With The Stars, aka the American version of Strictly which films in Los Angeles.
He films both shows, which air at the same time, meaning he has to fly back and forth between the US and UK each week.
Bruno tweeted: “100% back next week just had a clash whilst in [Dancing With The Stars].”
When one fan asked if that meant the US show was more important, he replied: “Far from it!”
While viewers were thrilled that Bruno’s absence was only temporary, plenty were scratching their heads about why he hadn’t cleared his calendar for Strictly.
Others wondered whether the pro dancers or the celebrities would be allowed a day off for other work – and pointed out everyone has a busy schedule but can’t just skip work.
A spokesperson for Strictly told The Sun: “As was always the plan, Bruno Tonioli is not on the judging panel this weekend due to a very busy work schedule.
“He will be back as normal for our Halloween special and the rest of the series.”
While shows such as The X Factor or Britain’s Got Talent often rope in guest judges to cover when the regular panellists are unable to film, Strictly decided not to replace Bruno.