Bruno Tonioli makes tough decision about his future on Strictly

(Image credit: Walt Disney Television via Getty)

published 2 July 2020

He's been a judge on Strictly Come Dancing for 16 years but it looks like Bruno Tonioli will miss this year's series of the hit dancing show as he opts to appear solely on the American version, Dancing With The Stars.

In previous years Bruno, 64, has juggled both the UK and the US version of the show. But, due to travel restrictions put in place amid the coronavirus pandemic, the star is going to have to make a decision to commit solely to one series.

And, according to The Sun it's looking likely that Bruno will choose to judge Dancing With The Stars due to its higher salary and the fact he's primarily based in America anyway.

The insider said, "There is no way to travel back and forth at the moment, so he's told bosses in the UK that unfortunately he will be staying over there.

"He spends a lot of his time in the States now, and the truth is he does earn a lot more from the US version."

While there are rumours that Bruno could be replaced with The Greatest Dancer judge Cheryl, this source thinks Bruno's seat will be kept open for him in the hope that restrictions will be eased later on in the year.

They added, "Of course it will be a shame to lose him, but even if he can make it back for a couple of weeks later in the series, his seat will be waiting for him."

It comes just weeks after BBC bosses unveiled plans for this year's series of Strictly to be "shorter" due to the pandemic.

After weeks of speculation as to whether the series would be axed completely, sources confirmed it WILL go ahead but with certain changes to ensure the safety of cast and crew.

This year’s series of Strictly will be two weeks shorter than previous years and start two weeks later than normal to allow for the professional dancers to isolate between filming the group dances and starting training with their celebrity partners.

According to The Sun, a show insider said, “BBC bosses were adamant they would do anything to keep their biggest show on air, and this proves that."

Georgia writes across Woman & Home and Good to Know and specialises in all things royal. Previously labelled the "Queen of the royals," Georgia knows the whose who and what's what when it comes to the monarchy. When she's not eagerly following the royal family, Georgia enjoys shopping and self-care. She lives with this motto in mind; "if your dreams don't scare you, they aren't big enough."