Arlene Phillips tipped to RETURN as Strictly Come Dancing judge

Arlene could be replacing head judge Len

Arlene Phillips is hoping her partner will spoil her and buy her an expensive handbag for Christmas

by Francesca Battson |
Published on

Renowned choreographer Arlene Phillips has been tipped to make a return to Strictly, after Len Goodman revealed he is leaving the show.

And one person that would like to see Arlene back on the judging panel is fellow judge Craig Revel Horwood.

Speaking to the Daily Star, Craig admitted: "I wouldn't mind seeing Arlene Phillips back on the panel.

"She's got the benefit of years and years of experience and the gift of the gab."

But Craig also thinks that Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall would also make a good addition to the panel!

Craig Revel Horwood and Camilla Duchess of Cornwall dancing
©Getty

The 67-year-old is a huge fan of the BBC dance show and as Craig’s friend, he says she would be his “dream judge”.

"When it comes to my dream new judge, well it's got to be my friend the Duchess of Cornwall,” Craig added.

"I've been desperate to get a royal on the show and Camilla could be just wonderful. And I'd love to have another lady on the panel too.

"Would she do it? Watch this space."

Strictly Come Dancing 2016: Line-up rumours

However it seems fan favourite Anton Du Beke is ahead of Arlene in the running for Len’s replacement.

anton du beke and len goodman

Craig recently revealed that Anton was a great judge on the Strictly Come Dancing tour, because of his experience in the show and his knowledge of ballroom and Latin dancing.

Arlene was controversially axed from the show in 2009, being replaced by former contestant Alesha Dixon.

And a spokesperson for William Hill has said this could affect Arlene’s decision to return: “Arlene certainly has the gravitas but having sacked her once the producers might find it hard to get her back.”

Other favourites in the line-up to become the next Strictly judge include: Karen Hardy, Brendan Cole, Jason Gilkison, John Meehan, Louie Spence, Erin Boag, Kimberley Wyatt and Donny Osmond.

This month Len Goodman announced he would be leaving the show he has been a part of for 12 years.

He said in an announcement: “This adventure began when I was 60 and now that I’ve reached my 70s, I’ve decided after this year it’s time to hand the role of Head Judge to someone else.”

Len recently revealed that he’s backing Anton and Karen as the two people he would love to fill his position on Striclty.

No official announcements have been made as yet, but we will be sure to bring you more news as it happens.

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