The Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing With the Stars merry-go-round has taken another spin with former Strictly professional Artem Chigvintsev joining the US show’s line-up, which also features Len Goodman and Bruno Tonioli as judges.
Latin dance expert Artem has announced via his Twitter account that he will be partnering a celebrity on the programme - the American version of the BBC ballroom dancing contest in September, the Mirror reports.
“I very excited [sic] to be joining the pro line up for DWTS season 19 - bring it on!” Artem tweeted.
The Russian star was immediately congratulated by fellow former Strictly pro James Jordan, who also will not be taking part in the BBC show this time.
James tweeted: “I’m so happy for my mate @artemchigvintse for joining DWTS!!! An amazing dancer and choreographer. You will be sorely missed in this country. [sic]”
The pair left the show in June, with Jordan quitting after he was offered a “slimmed-down role” that would have only seen him appear on screen for specials.
As well as the departures of Artem and James, professional dancer Robin Windsor has also withdrawn from this year’s contest.
Robin had to pull out after suffering a bad back injury on the last series.
“I couldn’t risk going ahead,” Robin said. “It was a heartbreaking decision but I had no choice. If the slipped disc had popped out while I was dancing, I could have ended up with permanent nerve damage and been in a wheelchair.”
Robin is being replaced by Australian dancer Trent Whiddon, who has appeared on Dancing with the Stars in the US and Australia.
Strictly Come Dancing will return to BBC1 in the autumn.
