‘Strictly Come Dancing’ star Anton du Beke and some of the ballroom show’s other pros are fearing for their future under new boss Sarah James.
Following the news that Pasha Kovalev has quit the BBC ballroom competition this week, it’s said that a number of his former colleagues are worried that new boss Sarah James will look to give the programme a makeover.
An insider told The Sun newspaper’s TV Bizarre column:
“Pasha’s surprise departure means a lot of the professionals are really worried. The dancers are wondering if the new show boss is going to start a mass cull and replace a lot of the current pros.
“They are messaging each other frantically as they try to work out what the plans are. Nobody saw Pasha leaving and the rumour mill has gone into overdrive, with everyone saying a few other names are going to be chopped — or at least announce it was their choice to leave the programme.
“Even Anton, who is almost part of the furniture, is worried he might not be asked back.”
While it’s said pros like Gorka Marquez and Karen Clifton could be concerned, producers are staying tight lipped about any possible changes.
A ‘Strictly’ spokesman added:
“The professional dancer line-up for 2019 will be announced in due course.”
In a statement this week, Pasha confirmed his exit from the show after “eight fantastic years”.
In a statement posted on Twitter, he wrote:
“After scoring 93 perfect tens, reaching four finals and lifting one Glitterball, it’s time for me to find a new challenge and so I’ve decided to make last year – my final season on Strictly.
“I’ve had eight fantastic years, full of wonderful memories, thanks to the incredible partners, professionals and myriad of behind the scenes teams who all work to make Strictly the amazing production that it is.”