Harry Judd ‘in talks’ to replace Darcey Bussell on Strictly Come Dancing judging panel

McFly’s Harry Judd is reportedly in talks to replace Darcey Bussell as a judge on Strictly Come Dancing 2019.

In April, Darcey announced that she has quit the BBC’s biggest entertainment show after seven series.

The former Royal Ballet principal said she wanted to focus on her “other commitments in dance”.

With a spot open on the panel, the Beeb is considering welcoming back a former Strictly champion.

Harry Judd, member of chart-topping boyband McFly, won the eighth series in 2011, alongside professional partner Aliona Vilani.

Now he could be about to swap his drumsticks for scoring paddles, as The Sun claims he’s been offered the judging role.

Bosses apparently believe he would attract more youth viewers to Strictly without alienating the loyal older audience.

“Strictly bosses are desperate to appeal to younger viewers,” a source said. “They know that is the age group they need to build on.

“Harry has millions of young fans thanks to McFly. They know that he would also hit the right note with older audiences as he is very much a family man, he is a dad with two children.

“Talks are ongoing at the moment, but as it stands, Harry is a firm favourite.”

The 33-year-old recently danced in 60s-themed stage show Rip It Up, which toured the UK before a four-month run at London’s West End.

He performed alongside fellow Strictly stars Louis Smith, Jay McGuinness, and Aston Merrygold.

“Harry has gained a lot of dance experience since he won,” The Sun’s insider added.

“He would also bring something to the judging panel that none of the others can, because he has been in the celebrities’ shoes.”

Harry would not be the first winner to return to the show as a judge.

Alesha Dixon took over from Arlene Phillips for three years before jumping ship to ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent.

Strictly stalwart Craig Revel Horwood recently suggested that his new colleague has been chosen.

Other potential candidates for the job include ballet dancer Carlos Acosta.

Strictly Come Dancing will return to our screens for its seventeenth series in the autumn.