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BBC bosses offer veteran dancer Anton Du Beke screen test as race to replace Len Goodman on Strictly Come Dancing panel intensifies

Anton Du Beke

STRICTLY’s head judge role has become one of the most sought-after jobs on telly.

There’s six months to go until the Beeb’s hit dancing show returns to our screens, but the race to replace LEN GOODMAN has intensified.

Anton Du Beke has set his sights on Len Goodman's position on Strictly Come Danicng
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Anton Du Beke has set his sights on Len Goodman's position on Strictly Come DanicngCredit: BBC

I can reveal that veteran dancer ANTON DU BEKE is set to undergo the first screen test to see how he will fit in on the new-look panel.

Insiders say BBC chiefs have not made a decision on their final line-up but are refusing to rule out the fan’s favourite.

A source said: “Everyone loves Anton and he has been one of the favourites for the job because of his seniority and for being on the show since it started.

The show's veteran dancer has been offered a screen test to see how he'd fit on the new-look panel
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The show's veteran dancer has been offered a screen test to see how he'd fit on the new-look panelCredit: PA:Press Association

“He would be like a younger Len and the transition would definitely be a smooth one.

“They’ve obviously not ruled out other people but it’s a good sign for Anton.”

It comes as his girlfriend is expected to give birth to twins next month after undergoing IVF treatment.

The role would allow Anton to spend more time at home, ideal timing as his girlfriend is to give birth to twins next month
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The role would allow Anton to spend more time at home, ideal timing as his girlfriend is to give birth to twins next monthCredit: PA:Press Association

The role would allow him to spend more time at home with the babies rather than having to train an old celeb for hours throughout the week before performing on a Saturday night.

Fellow former pro-dancer KAREN HARDY is also in the running after taking up a role on the panel alongside Len and CRAIG REVEL HORWOOD during the show’s tour.

Head judge Len Goodman won't be returning to Strictly when it hits our screens later this year
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Head judge Len Goodman won't be returning to Strictly when it hits our screens later this yearCredit: PA:Press Association

Len’s mate GARY EDWARDS, who is a former ballroom judge and once taught MICHAEL JACKSON some tips, is also set to have a screen test.

But Aussie dance legend HELEN RICHEY who appears on the panel Down Under is expected to not be considered after producers initially looked at her.

Anton is already a fan favourite, having been on the show since it started
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Anton is already a fan favourite, having been on the show since it startedCredit: PA:Press Association

Former judge ARLENE PHILLIPS, who was dropped from the show in 2009, will also not be invited back.

The Sun has already revealed producers are expected to give ex-ballerina DARCEY BUSSELL the role of head judge for the next series.

I think Anton would be a great choice.

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