Chris Evans backs Alfonso Ribeiro to replace Darcey Bussell as Strictly judge

Chris Evans has backed Alfonso Ribeiro to replace Dame Darcey Bussell as the new judge on \'Strictly Come Dancing\'.

The \'Fresh Prince of Bel Air\' star was a huge hit with fans after covering for Bruno Tonioli last year, and although Chris, 53, coudn\'t remember the 47-year-old actor\'s name, he thinks he would be a great choice for the BBC\'s ballroom competition.

Speaking on his Virgin Radio Breakfast show he said: "The guy who filled in last year, didn\'t he win it over in the States, who is that guy?

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"He\'s gotta be in (the running) he\'s done the job. He filled in for Bruno Tonioli. I can\'t remember his name."

Chris added that professional dancer Oti Mabuse would be a "good bet" and thought 2005 Strictly winner Darren Gough was his "hot tip".

His comments come after Darcey - who became a full-time judge on the show\'s 10th series in 2012 - revealed she was stepping away from her spot on the panel.

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However, the dancer added that she\'s enjoyed "every minute" of her time on the show and insisted she\'s not leaving because of "of any upset or disagreement".

She said in a statement: "It has been a complete privilege for me to be part of \'Strictly\', working with such a talented team.

"I have enjoyed every minute of my time and will miss everyone from my fellow judges, the presenters, the dancers, the musicians, the entire back stage team, and especially the viewers of the show, who have been so supportive.

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"I am not leaving because of any upset or disagreement at all, I am just stepping away to give more focus to my many other commitments in dance, after seven truly wonderful years that I can\'t imagine having gone any better."