It's all change on the Strictly judging panel as the show aims to freshen its image to compete with X-Factor.

 

In a widely-rumoured move, 66 year-old Arlene Phillips has got the boot in favour of 30 year-old Alesha Dixon.

 

Ballet dancer Darcey Bussell has also been drafted in a guest judge. She will appear towards the end of series and will also appear on It Takes Two.

 

Arlene gets a regular slot on BBC's The One Show where she will be the resident Strictly expert.

 

It's all a bit harsh on Arlene isn't it? Perhaps it was time for a fresher image but it is rather an ageist approach. Can Alesha compete with X Factor's Cheryl Cole in the glamour stakes? Will it make much difference to viewing figures? The appeal (or otherwise) of the celeb dancers is what drives the viewing figures in my view. Recent reports on that front suggest the show will be sexed up a bit anyway with younger celebs.

 

That said, some people felt Arlene's comments about John Sergeant went too far and that may have helped the show's producers to pick her the chop rather than judge Bruno Tonioli or head judge Len Goodman.

 

More coverage on MSN TV including a photo gallery.

 

There's also a message board thread about the matter.

 

Here is the BBC press release:

Jay Hunt, Controller of BBC One, announced today that Alesha Dixon and Darcey Bussell will join Strictly Come Dancing for its glittering new series this autumn.

The new series of Strictly will see Alesha Dixon join the panel of judges. As a star performer and past champion of the show, Alesha knows exactly what the dancers are going through.

Darcey Bussell will appear as guest judge towards the end of Strictly's run, adding her unique world-class dancing take on the performances.

Darcey will also appear on It Takes Two – more details to be announced.

Jay Hunt said: "As a former Strictly champion, Alesha knows exactly what it takes to win. Her eye for great performance and her charisma and charm make Alesha a great addition to the judging panel.

"Darcey has impeccable credentials as a dancer and, as a guest judge, she will bring an exciting new dimension to the last few weeks of the Strictly competition."

Alesha Dixon said: "I'm honoured and excited to be joining the judging panel. I've always felt like part of the Strictly family and really believe in the show."

Darcey Bussell added: "It is a real pleasure to have been invited to join Strictly Come Dancing. It is a fantastic show and I'm looking forward to getting to know the dancers and being part of the excitement."

Strictly Come Dancing returns for its seventh fabulous series this autumn.

These changes are part of the new format of this year's show – more will be revealed later in the year.