A STRICTLY Come Dancing fan favourite pro is being tipped for a shock return to the ballroom following a string of star axings, according to bookies.

The popular dancer is said to be in the frame for a comeback – sparking excitement among fans of the hit BBC show.

Kevin Clifton wearing a black suit and glasses, standing on a red carpet with the Virgin and BAFTA logos in the background.
Kevin Clifton is the bookies and fan favourite to return to the Strictly professional line upCredit: PA
 


Kevin Clifton won the show in 2018 alongside Stacey DooleyCredit: BBC
As Strictly Come Dancing undergoes a major shake-up ahead of the new series, bookmakers Betway are tipping fan favourite Kevin Clifton for a comeback – with odds of 3/1.

Kevin won Strictly Come Dancing in 2018 when he lifted the Glitterball trophy with his now-partner Stacey Dooley.

Other names tipped for a possible return include Joanne Clifton at 7/1, Oti Mabuse at 8/1 and Ian Waite at 9/1.

Betway spokesperson Lewis Knowles said: “With some huge changes on the horizon for Strictly, we predict that we may see some familiar faces make a comeback this autumn to reignite the Strictly magic.

“Kevin Clifton is our current favourite at 3/1 to make a return, but some other plausible favourites include Joanne Clifton at 7/1, Oti Mabuse at 8/1, Ian Waite 9/1, Curtis Pritchard at 10/1, who would represent a whole new demographic, and Brendan Cole at 16/1.

“While many fans are worried about the uncertainty the show currently faces, our current odds suggest that things will be business as usual for the Saturday night favourite this year, sitting at 1/20 to go ahead as scheduled!”

It comes after a large chunk of the show’s professional dancers did not have their contracts renewed – paving the way for a major cast shake-up.

Stars who have been axed so far include Karen Hauer, Nadiya Bychkova and Gorka Márquez.

The exits have fuelled speculation that a major shake-up is on the cards for Strictly, as the show continues to battle a dip in viewership.

Long-time hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly revealed at the end of the 2025 series that they would be stepping down – handing over presenting duties to a new line-up yet to be officially confirmed.

With major changes on the horizon, many long-time fans fear the show could be set to change beyond recognition.

However, others are hopeful the shake-up could open the door for classic Strictly favourites to return – and bring back some of the show’s original magic.

Karen Hauer poses in a sheer black lace top and black pants at the InterTalent x BAFTA Networking Breakfast.
Karen Hauer’s contracted was not renewedCredit: Getty
 


Nadiya Bychkova was also axed from the line-upCredit: PA
 


Gorka Márquez will also not be returning to the showCredit: Getty