A former professional dancer on ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ has strongly hinted that the BBC already knows that Len Goodman’s replacement on the judging panel will be Anton Du Beke, claiming that, although it won’t be announced yet, it is a “done deal”.

Trent Whiddon, who has only taken part in one series of ‘Strictly’ back in 2014 when he was partnered with Pixie Lott and made it as far as the 11th week of the show, spoke to The Mirror on Thursday evening (July 28th) at the premiere of his former dance partner’s new show ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ in the West End.

Anton du Beke Katie DerhamAnton du Beke with 'Strictly' celeb partner Katie Derham in December 2015

“It isn’t official yet, but it may as well be – it’s long been virtually guaranteed that Anton will fill any gaps on the judging panel,” he revealed, intimating that the agreement was made in all but name.

“He’s such a big part of the family and viewers love him, so BBC bosses know there’s no risk of it not working out. The time is right and it’s a done deal.”

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However, Metro followed up the report by contacting 50 year old du Beke, who has been a pro dancer on the show since it began in 2004. du Beke denied the reports, saying that Whiddon clearly “knew more” than he did.

At the age of 72, Len Goodman announced earlier this month that he would be stepping down from the judging panel at the end of the forthcoming 14th series at the end of 2016, having been there from the very start.

“This adventure began when I was 60 and now that I’ve reached my 70s, I’ve decided after this year it’s time to hand the role of Head Judge to someone else. It is an honour being part of the wonderful ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ family and I’m looking forward to my last series very much and to whatever comes next.”

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