Strictly Come Dancing fans launch petition to get Brendan Cole back

A petition has been launched to get Brendan Cole back on Strictly Come Dancing.

Brendan had been a pro dancer on the show for the past 14 years but announced his exit this week on ITV’s Lorraine.

Speaking about leaving Strictly this week, Brendan said: “They’ve made an editorial decision not to have me back on the show.

“I’m in shock. I got a phone call. I’ve had 15 incredible series.”

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

“I’ve never been contracted for more than one year. I still wanted to be part of it. My passion is still very much there.”

Fans have slammed the decision and one young follower of Brendan’s has launched a petition to get him back.

Currently signed by over 2,000 people, the online petition reads: “My name is Lucy and i am 7 years old. I want to make this petition because i think Brendan should stay on Strictly Come Dancing.

“He is an amazing dancer and is kind, caring, thoughful and my friend. He is the best dancer on Strictly. He has been so good to me and even let me dance with him on stage. Please let him stay. He make the show what it is. Thank you Lucy x”

Other fans of Brendan have joined in, with one posting on the petition website: “Bring back Brendan Cole on Strictly he’s by far the best pro male dancer with some brilliant choreography. Yes he stands up to the judges when they are being unfair with their criticisms so off course he’s not flavour of the month with them and the BBC but he’s definitely our favourite.

“Shame on you BBC I won’t be watching the new series this year.”

The BBC said in a statement this week: “We’d like to thank Brendan Cole 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.”

According to The Sun, dancer Marius Iepure is being lined up to take over from Brendan on Strictly.

He’s the husband of current pro performer Oti Mabuse.

Strictly Come Dancing will return to BBC One in the autumn.