The veteran ballroom dancer has quit as Head Judge on ‘Dancing With The Stars’ to focus on the new series of the BBC show, which kicks off next month.
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Len Goodman
Executive producer of ‘DWTS’, Rob Wade, confirmed: "Len will not be returning as a judge this season on Dancing With the Stars due to his schedule as a judge on ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ in the UK and the birth of his new grandson."
‘Dancing With The Stars’ usually has two seasons a year, with one airing at the same time as ‘Strictly’, and Len and co-judge Bruno Tonioli usually jet back-and-forth from the UK and US each week, in order to do both shows.
However, Len could still make guest appearances on the show, and bosses have confirmed they will not be hiring a replacement to sit alongside Bruno and fellow judges Carrie Ann Inaba and Julianne Hough.
"He still might be involved in the season at some capacity, but we will have to wait and see,” Rob said.
"We are planning on having great guest judges for some shows to join Bruno, Carrie Ann and Julianne, and I'm sure we will see Len in the ballroom again soon."
Just weeks after Michelle revealed that she'd love a stint on 'Strictly', the Beeb were in touch, reportedly offering her a spot on the upcoming series. (credit:Jonathan Short/Invision/AP)
Jamelia(02 of10)
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Despite reports claiming that Jamelia was planning a stint in the 'I'm A Celebrity' jungle, the 'Loose Women' panelist looks more likely to get her dancing shoes on, and remain in the UK. (credit:Joel Ryan/Invision/AP)
Dermot O'Leary(03 of10)
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In late July, fans who thought Dermot might be getting ready to don a sequin vest were being offered odds of 6/4. (credit:David M. Benett via Getty Images)
Alan Titchmarsh(04 of10)
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Alan's previously admitted that 'Strictly' is "the only reality TV show I'd consider", and with his ITV chat show coming to an end, there's never been a better time for him to sign up. (credit:Max Mumby/Indigo via Getty Images)
Hetti Bywater (05 of10)
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Could former 'EastEnders' star Hetti be returning to BBC1? (credit:Joel Ryan/Invision/AP)
Jamie and Louise Redknapp (06 of10)
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Jamie and Louise Redknapp are both believed to be in advanced talks with BBC bosses. (credit:ASSOCIATED PRESS)
Natalie Anderson(07 of10)
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After leaving 'Emmerdale', Natalie has revealed that she's keen to try something new, stating that the show would work well with her busy life as a mum. (credit:Karwai Tang via Getty Images)
Richard Madeley(08 of10)
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Richard is another bookies' favourite. (credit:Joel Ryan/Invision/AP)
Antony Cotton(09 of10)
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'Strictly' bosses have no shortage of willing soapstars this year, but sadly, while Antony did once want to nab a spot on the show, his new 'Corrie' contract makes things difficult. (credit:Anthony Harvey via Getty Images)
Sarah-Jane Crawford(10 of10)
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The former 'Xtra Factor' presenter will be following in Caroline Flack's footsteps if she hotfoots it to the BBC - and it didn't exactly do Flacko any harm. (credit:Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP)