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Strictly news: Craig Revel Horwood ‘wants Bruno Tonioli to return because panel misses his spark’

Report claims Craig reckons show is 'flat' without Bruno

Craig Revel Horwood wants Bruno Tonioli to make a Strictly return because his spark is missed, a news report today (November 7) has claimed.

According to The Sun, judge Craig feels the panel doesn’t have the same “pizzazz” as when Bruno is on board.

Veteran dance pro Anton du Beke has stepped in this series for Bruno since coronavirus travel chaos affected the Italian fave’s availability.

Anton du Beke has filled the judging slot left by Bruno
Anton du Beke has filled the judging slot left by Bruno (Credit: BBC)

Anton, 55, has also filled in Bruno, 65, previously when there was a clash with his Dancing With The Stars commitments.

However, Bruno is reportedly expected to be part of the Christmas special. He will also participate in the Strictly Arena Tour for the first time in two years.

But Anton’s future role on the BBC One series is yet to be confirmed.

Craig is reported to believe that Bruno added 'pizzazz and expertise' to the Strictly judges
Craig is reported to believe that Bruno added ‘pizzazz and expertise’ to the Strictly judges (Credit: BBC iPlayer)

Strictly news: What did Craig say about a Bruno’s return?

The tabloid claims a TV insider has voiced Craig’s alleged opinion to them about the current state of the judging panel.

And that apparently includes a wish to see his pal Bruno lining up alongside him once again.

Read more: Strictly: Anton du Beke under fire over controversial comments about Rose Ayling-Ellis

A source is quoted as telling The Sun: “Craig feels the chemistry is a bit flat without Bruno.

“He brought some pizzazz and expertise to the panel.”

Craig and Bruno’s Great British Road Trips
Craig and Bruno teamed up for Great British Road Trips which aired on ITV earlier in 2021 (Credit: YouTube)

Will Anton remain if Bruno comes back to the show?

The unnamed insider also indicated Craig, 56, believes a comeback for Bruno is a possibility as the US opens borders for international flights again.

They went on to claim that Craig reckons he and Bruno have a chemistry that isn’t easily replicated.

Craig feels the chemistry is a bit flat without Bruno.

However, it was acknowledged that Anton has his own backers hoping he will be installed permanently as well.

Read more: Bruno Tonioli confirms imminent Strictly return – but fans think it is ‘unfair’ on Anton du Beke

The source continued: “They have a spark that is difficult to recreate. But Anton has a strong fan base and there is definitely a camp who would like him to stay.”

ED! has approached a representative for Craig for comment.

Strictly Come Dancing continues with Week 7 results tonight, Sunday November 7, on BBC One at 7.15pm.

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Robert Leigh
Freelance writer