Bruno Tonioli Set to Depart ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ to Focus on ‘Dancing With the Stars’
ABC/Christopher Willard Reading Time: 2 minutes
After 18 years, Bruno Tonioli is set to depart from the dance series, Strictly Come Dancing. The Italian choreographer has been part of the United Kingdom-based series since its launch in 2004, but has not appeared in the past two years due to Covid-19 travel restrictions.
Bruno Tonioli is undergoing a career change ahead of the Dancing With the Stars migration to Disney +. Instead of working another season as a judge in both the U.S.A. and U.K., Tonioli has decided to focus his time on the American series.
“Bruno has quit the show for good,” a source said. “He’s going to be a judge only on Dancing With The Stars from now on.”
The 66 year old’s departure from the series comes after nearly 18 years on the judge panel. Tonioli was one of the original judges of the series in its 2004 launch. He sat on the panel alongside Craig Horwood, Arlene Phillips, and Len Goodman. His departure from the series comes as no surprise to fans considering his limited involvement in the past two years. The choreographer had not appeared on the series in person in nearly two years due to travel restrictions imposed by COVID-19.
Last season, British ballroom dancer Anton Du Beke sat in place of Tonioli on the judging panel. Originally, it was suggested that Tonioli the dancers would return together in the upcoming season. In April, the dance show confirmed their professionals for the upcoming series. In early May, Du Beke hinted that he would return in the upcoming series.
Dancing With the Stars Leaves ABC After 30 Years
Tonioli’s concentration on Dancing With the Stars as the series becomes the first live streamed series on Disney +. After 30 years on ABC, DWTS has received a two season renewal and new home. Even though the show’s departure from ABC came as a surprise, cast members ensure that the series will thrive.
Professional dancer turned judge Derek Hough has explained that the lack of commercials on the platform will provide more time for performances, creativity, dance, and more. Hough has spoken positively about the migration alongside Carrie Ann Inaba, Cheryl Burke, Gleb Savchenko, and Keo Motsepe.
