Kevin Clifton planned to quit \'Strictly Come Dancing\' last year.
The popular pro announced on Friday (06.03.20) that he won\'t be part of the cast for the next series of the Latin and ballroom contest but it\'s now been claimed he actually planned to go out on a high after winning the Glitterball Trophy with now-girlfriend Stacey Dooley in 2018.
But Kevin was persuaded to return for the 2019 series - and reportedly regretted his decision as he and professional partner exited the competition in week three.
A source told The Sun on Sunday newspaper: "Kevin was flooded with lucrative offers after he won \'Strictly\' with Stacey in 2018 and he told bosses then that he wanted to walk away.
"He only earns around £45,000 for the show and yet he could pick up £100,000 for a year-long theatre gig.
His head was turned by the money. But he was talked into coming back with a lot of flattery about \'King Kev\' being the most-loved pro dancer on the show.
"He hoped to follow his and Stacey\'s win with more success. Instead he was paired with Anneka, who -- lovely as she is -- was never going to the final."
The 37-year-old dancer - who joined the show in 2013 - confirmed his departure in a social media statement.
He said: "The past 7 years have been some of the most wonderful years of my life. I am grateful to the BBC and \'Strictly Come Dancing\' for giving me the opportunity to have been a part of something truly special.
"Since first being called Kevin From Grimsby by Sir Bruce Forsyth in 2013 I have experienced the highs of 5 finals, winning a Guinness World record on \'It Takes Two\', the Strictly Arena tour glitterball and then the ultimate of winning the 2018 series with Stacey Dooley.
"After finishing last series with the \'Children In Need\' trophy and the Christmas Special I want to leave on a high and have therefore decided the time has come to move on and focus on other areas of my life and career."
