Strictly Come Dancing's Darcey Bussell to be replaced by McFly's Harry Judd?

(Image credit: WireImage)

BBC bosses are said to be keen on the former Strictly winner taking Darcey's spot

Dame Darcey Bussell announced she was stepping down from her role as a judge on Strictly Come Dancing in April.

Ever since, fans of the hit BBC series have been desperate to know who will be replacing her on the panel alongside Craig Revel Horwood, Bruno Tonioli and Shirley Ballas when the show returns in September.

According to a new report, McFly musician and former Strictly winner Harry Judd could now be in the running.

BBC bosses are said to want the 33-year-old, who recently appeared on the West End stage in the Rip It Up musical, on the judging panel as they believe he will appeal to younger audiences.

Harry Judd

BBC bosses are said to be keen on Harry Judd taking over

A source told The Sun: "Strictly bosses are desperate to appeal to younger viewers, as they know that is the age group they need to build on.

"Last year that was behind the decision to sign up YouTuber Joe Sugg as a contestant. And Harry has millions of young fans thanks to McFly.

"He is popular, very charismatic and has experience of dancing both on Strictly and in the West End, after appearing in Rip it Up."

The source added that, being a married dad with two children, he will also still have the pulling power with older audiences.

They went on: "They know that he would also hit the right note with older audiences as he is very much a family man, he is a dad with two children. Talks are ongoing at the moment, but as it stands, Harry is a firm favourite."

Strictly Come Dancing, Harry Judd

The McFly musician won Strictly in 2012 alongside partner Aliona Vilani

Darcey had been a member of the judging panel for seven series, having joined in 2012.

When she stepped down, she said she was "not leaving because of any upset or disagreement", but to focus on "other commitments".

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"It has been a complete privilege for me to be part of Strictly, working with such a talented team," she added.

The Harry rumours come just a few weeks after judge Craig Revel Horwood said he would like to see Nicole Scherzinger take over the role.

He told Australia’s TV Week, “She’d be fabulous. Anton du Beke definitely wants to do it. I’d love to see Nicole, or Carlos [Acosta].”