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Brian Conley denies wanting to quit Strictly amid panto rumours

The contestant has set the record straight

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Baffled Strictly Come Dancing contestant Brian Conley has slammed claims he wants to QUIT after just two weeks of live shows.

The 56-year-old entertainer survived last week’s dance-off to make it through to Movies Week, but it was reported on Friday he’s hopeful for an early exit.

Why? Well, apparently so he could sign up for a big money panto stint.

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The only problem is, it’s all a bit of a surprise to a bemused Brian, who woke up to find claims he wants to leave Strictly had pretty much swept the internet.

Brian’s partnered with pro Amy Dowden [Credit: Twitter @dowden_amy]
He didn’t waste any time when it came to setting the record straight, however, taking to Twitter asap to insist he has no desire to leave Strictly at all.

“Just woke to news that I apparently want to be out of Strictly,” he tweeted. “What utter [bleep]! I’m loving this & 100% want to stay in as long as poss.”

Phew!

Fans were clearly thrilled to hear that, with many sending Brian words of support and encouragement.

One wrote: “You tell em! Love you in Strictly! You make me smile!”

Another said: “Yay!!! Really hope you do stay in as long as poss! You’re my hero!”

And a third added: “Your many followers and fans want you to stay in as long as possible too!! Good Luck for Saturday Brian.”

Brian insisted he wants to stay in Strictly for the long run [Credit: Twitter @dowden_amy]
According to The Sun, the actor and singer had been overheard telling Strictly cast and crew members he only had “minimal time left” on the show.

A source said: “Brian clearly sees his involvement in the show as pretty short-term.

“He’s been telling people he’s only got minimal time left and is already expecting to head off to panto.”

He survived last week’s dance-off [Credit: Instagram @realbrianconley]
Brian is partnered with pro dancer Amy Dowden.

They ended up in the dance off last week after scoring 19 out of 40 points for their Cha Cha Cha.

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But in the end it was Holby City’s Chizzy Akudolu and partner Pasha Kovalev who were eliminated, after the judges chose to save Brian and Amy.

Afterwards, Brian told fans: “Thanks for all your votes this week on Strictly. Sorry I let you down.

“Hope to do better this Saturday.”

Best of luck!


Nancy Brown
Associate Editor