The 52-year-old dancer has become the first pro to declare their interest in the role just hours after The Sun exclusively revealed he is the heavy favourite among cast and crew
ANTON Du Beke has confirmed he want to take the vacant judges position after Darcey Bussell's shock decision to quit the show.
The 52-year-old dancer has become the first pro to declare their interest in the role just hours after The Sun exclusively revealed he is a popular choice among the cast and crew.
Speaking to Graham Norton today on BBC Radio 2, he said “Do you know what? I’m certainly qualified. I suspect there’ll be conversations going on, but it’s one of those things.
“I’m definitely qualified to do it, I’d love to do it, but we’ll have to wait to be asked in the normal way.”
He added: “I wish I could make the decision for them, but if I could do that I’d have made the final 12 times.”
Anton has been on the BBC One show since it began in 2004 and is a firm favourite with viewers.
A source said: “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.” Anton auditioned to replace Len Goodman as head judge before Shirley Ballas, 58, got the job.
But despite the support for Anton, former pro Karen Hardy, 48, and current star Oti Mabuse, 28, are hot favourites to get the job.
Meanwhile, some of the show’s professionals have privately expressed relief at Darcey leaving after seven years, saying she was “aloof”.
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