Axed Strictly Come Dancing star Brendan Cole ‘became too much to handle’

Former Strictly Come Dancing star Brendan Cole was “hated” by BBC staff after he became “too much to handle”, a new report alleges.

Yesterday, the professional dancer confirmed that he’s been dropped from the hit talent contest after fourteen years.

During a sombre interview on ITV’s Lorraine, he said: “They’ve made an editorial decision not to have me back.

“I’m disappointed. I’ve always known this day would come. I’m a very strong character, some don’t like that.”

The Daily Mail suggests that Brendan’s exit was triggered by his recent admission that he has “not liked” many of his celebrity partners. Meanwhile, others have speculated his on-air rows with the judges could be to blame.

However, a new report from The Sun suggests Brendan also created problems backstage, allegedly leaving staff “frightened” to approach him.

The newspaper quotes a source as saying that the 41-year-old eventually saw himself as “bigger than the show”.

“Brendan’s ego and his attitude became too much to handle and in reality that’s why he’s gone,” the source said.

“He used to be lovely and charming, but by the last series he thought he was bigger than the show.

“Some of the junior staff were too frightened to even talk to him because they worried he’d bite their heads off.

“He’s paid the price because nobody is bigger than the show.”

Brendan has yet to respond to the claims.

He has won the support of fans, however, with many taking to Strictly’s Twitter page to slam the decision to axe him.

In a statement, the BBC said: “We’d like to thank Brendan for being part of the show since the beginning – winner of the first series – and for the contribution he has made to its success.

“We wish him all the very best for the future.”

Brendan’s departure leaves Anton Du Beke as Strictly’s only remaining original professional contestant. The pros are thought to be contracted on an annual basis.