Darcey Bussell thinks Will Young could have "easily" reached the 'Strictly Come Dancing' final.
Darcey Bussell
The 47-year-old show judge admitted it was "horrifying" to hear the 37-year-old singer had quit the show when he had so much potential, but insisted his exit was nothing to do with the star clashing with her fellow panellist Len Goodman.
She said: "It's horrifying to think that somebody who could have easily got to the final [has left]. But you know, like in anybody's lives, you have many things that are going on and it is not to do with Len Goodman - just to make that clear."
Darcey admitted it was "sad" that Will, who cited "personal reasons" for his departure, quit the programme, but she isn't sure of the exact reason he decided to hang up his dancing shoes.
She added to Mail Online: "It's sad. Unfortunately, being a judge we are not allowed to see the rehearsals or what happened during the week so you don't know the ins and outs and you only arrive on the day of the live show."
The former 'Pop Idol' winner's surprise exit came just two days after he locked horns with Len over his Bollywood-inspired Salsa routine on Saturday (08.10.16).
The 72-year-old ballroom dancer thought the display lacked the traditional dance moves of a Salsa.
But Will argued back that his routine contained all 24 counts needed.
Len had the last word by telling Will to "show up, keep up, and shut up."
Fans were hoping Will's exit would mean a return for last week's eliminated celeb, 'EastEnders' star Tameka Empson, but 'Strictly' bosses confirmed that would not be the case.
A show rep said: "The series will continue as planned with an elimination every week until the grand final. The previously eliminated contestants will not be returning to the competition."
Tagged in Will Young Len Goodman Darcey Bussell