Because I prefer my Saturday evening meal to remain in my stomach.

You can replace him on the panel with Ian though. I have no objection to that.

Graham Norton would certainly work.
But I thought it was ok tonight with Tess. She (thankfully) didn't try to be funny, and just let the show run naturally. She didn't have to miss out a single judge's comment through telling some long-winded joke, then repeating it to make sure we have got the (unfunny) punch line. That was a refreshing difference for starters.

Alexander Armstrong would be perfect imo, relaxed, calm and witty. Closest we will get to a Tom Bergeron style of host.

I have nothing against Graham Norton or Alan Carr, but the show is already treading a fine line between pleasantly camp and a popper fueled night out at G.A.Y., a camp host would push it over the edge.

Graham Norton would be my choice,he was brilliant presenting Strictly dance fever back in 2005 and 2006.Get well Brucie you are my favourite!

vernon

I agree with this!

One reason for being able to get in all of the judges' comments was because Claudia kept it very brief in the Tess-pit, and as far as I can remember, no list of quotes from the judges to read back

[quote=21stCenturyBoy;69021301]I think Matthew Kelly would be quite a good choice- he's got lots of pedigree with live presenting and is capable of "off- the-cuff" humour.[/QUOTE]

with Claudia

Well spotted. This I suspect is because Claudia can do ad-lib quick questions where Tess needs a script.

That's why long term, I would like her to replace Tess. I also didn't cringe when Ben went back up there, waiting for Tess to demand a view of his 'guns'.

Also why it works well with Tess in the bit that needs timed scripting. Bruce has a tendency to wander off script which is what causes delays and disjointed running times.

Agreed, Claudia's little interviews ran very smoothly as well. Given that it was a long show, the timing appeared to be spot-on. It really annoys me when they have to miss out what one of the judges has to say, surely that's more important than getting in all of Brucie's quips ?

Ps..I think Alexander Armstrong is great as well, not so sure if he would be a good "fit" for Strictly though.

If anyone believes the script Tess followed was rewritten for her why would it be?

Tess and Claudia did a good job and made good substitutes for the main man. I feel rotten for mentioning it as I enjoy the entertainment of Strictly and Brucie hosting but Brucie fluffs are made so much of but Tess’s go unmentioned. They didn’t spoil for the show for me but then I’m not interested in wanting Brucie gone as he’s the show business legend the BBC wish to have on contract. Hope he was feeling well enough to watch the show and enjoyed it but as soon as he's fully recovered it'll be good to have him back.

Graham Norton would get my vote, he was excellent on the "Dance fever shows"

BiB Quite possibly amended for Tess. After all it was not like they didn't have enough notice. And, if it was Bruce's original script, it just goes to show how much he wanders off the point and labours the jokes rather than moving on when they fall flat.

I agree with Paul O'Grady (he is naturally likeable), but not Alan Carr as I don't find him that personable.

Not Graham Norton or Alexander Armstrong as they already get lots of work.

Sue Perkins might work as she seems to take a genuine interest in the contestants on Bake-Off.

What about Angela Rippon? She did after all present Come Dancing. Matthew Kelly would be good as well. I met him once and really liked him. I think they would be a perfect combination. To be honest, I'm not a big fan of Tess or Bruce (although he does do well for his age).

I also think Rippon and Kelly would be great at the off the cuff remarks and commentary. Would be better coming from the heart than an autocue.

Aww I like Xandra! I think he has the right kind of demeanour for Strictly as well.

Other than that i'd say either Vernon Kay or give Anton a shot at it.

Agree with karina_ Brian Conley would be my choice, excellent song and dance man, funny - ideal

I've decided I want Rob Brydon. He's very amusing on Would I Lie to You.

Alexander is just dull.

Tess will replace Bruce, and Claudia will replace Tess.

They won't have made eleven series with Bruce to suddenly bring in Gary Wilmot or Clare Balding.

I guess Anton is out of the running after pakigate?

It was a while ago and may have been forgotten by most, but that episode sure didn't help.

Love Strictly as I said earlier Brian Conley for me he is an obvious replacement for Brucie. Quick witted, song and dance man....ideal,,,Any thoughts ??

To the tune of the Hallelujah Chorus:

#Gary Wilmot. Gary Wilmot.
Gary Wilmot, Gary Wilmot, Ga-a-ry Wilmot!#

I thank you.

Or if Bradley Walsh could manage his diary, BW!

Frankie Boyle