Dancing With The Stars set for major change amid Len Goodman exit

20 April 2023 , 22:10

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Len's departure has caused a major change (Image: ABC via Getty Images)

The 32nd season of Dancing With The Stars is set to see big changes hit the popular ballroom competition.

The decision for change comes following veteran judge Len Goodman's announcement he's stepping down from the show and it is said the new set-up will "allow for a lot more flexibility".

Following the 78-year-old's departure, show bosses have decided not to seek a replacement and will carry on with just the three judges.

That means Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough will be at the helm and dishing out the scores as a threesome.

Derek, 37, opened up on the new set-up and confessed he thinks it is a good idea.

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There will only be three judges for season 32 (Walt Disney Television via Getty)

In a chat with US Weekly, the professional dancer said: "I think this is gonna be it. I think [they are] kind of realising that three is the right amount.

"And what’s good about three is that it also allows space for a guest judge."

He continued to admit that when Michael Buble guested on the panel last season it was a bit much to have five expert opinions.

He believes the decision will now allow the remaining judges to have more airtime, joking that will certainly suit motor mouth Bruno.

"Bruno [is] over there taking up eight minutes," Derek joked.

As for who he would like to see as a guest judge, Derek claimed the position is perfect for someone who has previously featured as a dancer.

There had been speculation the fourth seat would be filled with one of the former professionals, including Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Cheryl Burke, but Derek's revelation seemingly pours cold water on that.

Len shocked fans with his retirement announcement on a show at the backend of series 31, bringing an end to his 17-year stint with the show.

Len had worked on the show for 17 years (Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images)

He told viewers at the time: "Whilst we're all getting excited and looking forward so much to the finale next week, it will also be with a touch of sadness as this will be my last season judging on Dancing With the Stars.

"I've been with the show since it started in 2005 and it has been a huge pleasure to be a part of such a wonderful show, but I've decided I'd like to spend more time with my grandchildren and family back in Britain."

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He isn't the only one to be stepping away from the programme either, with host Tyra Banks saying her goodbyes too.

The 49-year-old model confessed to TMZ in March: "I think it’s time. I think my heart and soul are in my business. It's also into producing TV.

"I really, really want to focus on my business and you can’t do that while hosting a show.

"So you’ll see me creating things, not just hosting.”

Jamie Roberts