He's been on the judging panel of all 16 series of Strictly Come Dancing, since the show launched in 2004.
And Bruno Tonioli has now confirmed who will be replacing him as he takes a break from the judging panel – and its quite surprising!
The 62-year-old Italian choreographer revealed the news during Sunday nights results show.
As the dancing competition said goodbye to television presenter Katie Piper – who found herself in a dance-off with EastEnders actor Charles Venn – Bruno announced that Fresh Prince of Bel Air star Alfonso Ribeiro would be taking his place while he took some time off.
The actor – best known for his role as Carlton Banks in the US sitcom – will step in for Bruno on the weekend of October 20.
And with an established background in dance, having taken part and winning Dancing with the Star in 2014, we have high hopes!
As well as his success on the US version of the dance show, during his heyday in the 90s sitcom opposite Will Smith, he even managed to create his own dance move with The Carlton, as his characters flamboyant flailing became iconic.
A source said, “Everyone is excited to have Alfonso on the judging panel. He will bring great energy to show following his winning appearance on Dancing with The Stars.
“Alfonso is a TV icon and was a real hit in the UK when he appeared on Im A Celebrity back in 2013. Hes got that real sense of comedic charm and effortless banter that is needed in a game show presenter, so BBC bosses thought he would be the perfect signing.”
It comes after it was reported that Bruno had been forced to miss a week of the BBC series due to his “busy working schedule.”
And while Alfonsos time on the panel will only be temporary, with Bruno set to return for the Halloween special, we could be seeing a lot more of the American star – who is now set to return to the UK on a more permanent basis as he gets ready to front a game show for the BBC.
“Alfonso is a TV icon and was a real hit in the UK when he appeared on Im A Celeb back in 2013,” an insider told The Sun.
“Hes got that real sense of comedic charm and effortless banter that is needed in a game show presenter, so BBC bosses thought he would be the perfect signing.
“Hes filming a pilot next week but they are really hoping that it will hit the ground running and be turned into a full series. Its sure to be a right laugh with Alfonso on board. And, of course, theyre hoping that his famous Carlton dance and bright sweaters will make an appearance at some point.”
How exciting!
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