Why Darcey Bussell is leaving Strictly – all the hints from her statement

 Darcey Bussell shocked the nation by stepping down from her role as a judge on Strictly Come Dancing today.

Her announcement has sent the rumour mill into overdrive as fans question why she's leaving.

The former ballerina, 49, released a statement insisting there hasn't been "any upset or disagreement" with BBC bosses.

But some fans weren't convinced and took to Twitter to debate whether Darcey had been let go.

One was very blunt, writing: "Have they sacked you?"

Some suggested Darcey had found herself in a similar situation to previous judge Arlene Phillips, 75, who was booted from the show in 2009.

She was then replaced by pop star Alesha Dixon .

Arlene later said she was blindsided by the decision to remove her from the panel.

In her statement today, Darcey insisted she was leaving to focus on other dance projetcs.

She spends a lot of time helping a variety of charity projects, including many organisations that encourage youngsters to take up dance.

However, she may also face speculation that another job offer has come up that she wouldn't be able to juggle with Strictly.

She could nab a role on the US version of the show, Dancing With The Stars, like another former Strictly judge Len Goodman.

There's also the possibility that she could be working on more TV projects back in the UK or even choreographing a stage show.

In her statement today, the ballet legend said: "It has been a complete privilege for me to be part of Strictly, working with such a talented team.

"I have enjoyed every minute of my time and will miss everyone from my fellow judges, the presenters, the dancers, the musicians, the entire back stage team, and especially the viewers of the show, who have been so supportive.

"I am not leaving because of any upset or disagreement at all, I am just stepping away to give more focus to my many other commitments in dance, after seven truly wonderful years that I can’t imagine having gone any better.

"I know I will miss being part of this unique show and the fact that it celebrates dance is something I am so passionate about. I hope that I may be very lucky to be asked back again one day”.

Read More

Showbiz editor's picks

Source: Read Full Article