Who will replace Darcey Bussell on Strictly Come Dancing?

Dame Darcey Bussell is leaving Strictly Come Dancing – but who will her replacement be?

Ballet dancer Darcey has made the surprise announcement today that she is leaving Strictly Come Dancing after seven years.

Darcey first joined the show in 2012, replacing Alesha Dixon who moved to Britain’s Got Talent.

Darcey currently judges on Strictly alongside Craig Revel Horwood, Bruno Tonioli and head judge Shirley Ballas.

The BBC has not yet confirmed who will replace Darcey prompting plenty of speculation.

Many names in the frame are current pro dancers including Anton Du Beke, who is the last original professional still with the show.

Oti Mabuse, who was recently a judge on new BBC One series The Greatest Dancer, is also tipped as a possible replacement.

A number of former pros have already been linked to the open position as well: Karen Hardy and Ian Waite both still remain close to the show, regularly appearing on It Takes Two.

Meanwhile, Star Sports bookmakers have odds of 12/1 that former judge Arlene Phillips could make a shock return.

For now, we can only wait and see…

Strictly Come Dancing 2019 typically begins in September.

In a statement released today, Darcey said there was no “upset or disagreement” behind the decision, saying she planned to focus on “my many other commitments in dance”.

Darcey explained: “It has been a complete privilege for me to be part of Strictly, working with such a talented team.

“I have enjoyed every minute of my time and will miss everyone from my fellow judges, the presenters, the dancers, the musicians, the entire back stage team, and especially the viewers of the show, who have been so supportive.

“I am not leaving because of any upset or disagreement at all, I am just stepping away to give more focus to my many other commitments in dance, after seven truly wonderful years that I can’t imagine having gone any better.”

She added: “I know I will miss being part of this unique show and the fact that it celebrates dance is something I am so passionate about. I hope that I may be very lucky to be asked back again one day”.

Strictly airs on BBC One.