DANCING with the Stars judge Len Goodman’s coveted seat could be snatched up by Strictly Come Dancing’s Motsi Mabus, The U.S. Sun can exclusively report.
A source claimed the UK-based judge is DWTS producers’ favorite choice to fill Len’s spot for season 32.
The DWTS insider says Motsi, 41, would bring a new perspective to the show, and much-needed diversity to the table.
The insider told The U.S. Sun: “Motsi is a very outspoken and lively character.
“She is loved on the UK version for being a strong independent mind and someone who stands up for herself.
“She would bring a fresh feel to the show.
“Len has been a huge fan and supporter of her for years, and the casting process is already secretly underway.
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“The judge’s schedules are planned months in advance – and if Motsi joins, then she would have to balance the UK show too – or even leave.”
DWTS producer Conrad Green will have a hard time considering his several talented options in the next few weeks.
The insider claimed the producer’s ultimate decision will come down to the talent’s schedules and the ultimate commitment to be in the US long-term.
The U.S. Sun has reached out to DWTS for comment.
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NEW FACES
However, it looks as if Motsi may also have competition from the UK show Strictly Come Dancing’s Shirley Ballas, 62, as well as several pro-dancers throwing their hat in the ring to replace Len as the head judge.
The source claimed: “Len’s exit leaves a big hole in the panel, but the show team feel Shirley would be a really great addition.
“Her experience is unrivaled and she has made no secret of the fact she’d love to spend more time with her son Mark, who is based in the U.S. with his wife Brittany.
“She could hold both her Strictly job and a new role on Dancing with the Stars – as Len did for years.”
Shirley admitted she’s “struggled” on this year’s Strictly after vicious trolling, having said: “I don’t mind people disagreeing with me… but when the trolling gets to be about your face, your hair, your figure, your bingo wing arms, or your big ears or your eyes…”
However, her spokesman said: “She loves Strictly and working with the BBC, and has no intention of leaving.”
WATERWORKS
Two DWTS pros were also quick to throw their name in the hat for a promotion and to fill Len’s empty seat.
Cheryl Burke, 38, and Gleb Savchenko, 39, both wanted in on the coveted spot.
The U.S. Sun previously reported Cheryl had thrown down an ultimatum saying she gets the judge’s seat or she’s quitting the show – but her offer wasn’t on the table for long.
Fans assumed Cheryl wasn’t offered to fill Len’s spot as she posted on her Instagram Sunday announcing Monday would be her final dance on the show she’d been on for 26 seasons.
Today, The U.S. Sun reported: “Cheryl was in tears all day yesterday and was crying days leading up to the finale.
“It’s an emotional rollercoaster for her because she’s sad about leaving but also excited about the future.”
The source went on to say that she is “absolutely heartbroken” and that her decision to leave “really put her through the wringer.”
GLEB’S TURN!
However, Gleb wants to be considered for the promotion as well.
The dancer exclusively told The U.S. Sun: “”Listen, I’d love to, at some point, step into Len’s shoes and get in his seat, and at least for a couple of weeks, give me a shot.
“And I think DWTS should give each pro a shot and make it fun. Each pro goes and judges one of the episodes – that would be fun.”
Although Cheryl dropped out of the show, Gleb said he’s still down to stick around.
“I definitely have a couple more seasons, couple more years – maybe five years more in me to do this,” he teased.
