Bruno Tonioli ‘hopes for Strictly Christmas special return’

OHMYGOSSIP — Bruno Tonioli is said to be keen to return to ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ for the Christmas special.
The 65-year-old star has been replaced on the judging panel by pro dancer Anton Du Beke for the forthcoming series of the BBC Latin and ballroom competition, due to the ongoing travel restrictions around COVID-19, but he hopes things will change in time for the festive episode later this year.
A source told The Sun newspaper: “Bruno’s genuinely devastated and is praying the restrictions will ease enough over the coming months to let him return for filming of the festive special, which usually takes place late in the autumn.”
For now, Bruno will stay in the US to film ‘Dancing with the Stars’.
Anton will join returning judges Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, and Craig Revel Horwood on the panel – and he is thrilled to be stepping into Bruno’s shoes.
He said: “My loves I cannot tell you how thrilled I am to be stepping into Bruno’s brogues for the next series of ‘Strictly’.
“It’s a dream come true to be judging alongside the best of the best and I promise to be kinder to all the couples than any of them have ever been to me.”
Bruno – who has been a ‘Strictly’ judge since 2004 – is “gutted” about missing this year’s show, but he is “so excited” to see Anton on the programme.
He added: “Whilst I am gutted to not be on the show this year there is one person and one person only that could take my place – it’s just a shame they weren’t available … ha ha.
“Darlings, I’m kidding, I’m kidding! Seriously though, I have to tell you, Anton is Mr Strictly and if anybody is filling in for me, it has to be him.
“I honestly wouldn’t have it any other way and I am so excited to see him waggle his paddle.”

Source: VacationHunter.Online
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