Strictly Come Dancing 2017: Shirley Ballas breaks silence on THOSE Bruno Tonioli snaps
SHIRLEY BALLAS has spoken out after pictures emerged of her Strictly Come Dancing co-star Bruno Tonioli in Los Angeles yesterday.
Strictly Come Dancing 2017 Bruno Tonioli night out misses show BBC age partner
Strictly's Shirley Ballas DEFENDS Bruno Tonioli's absence
The head judge defended the Italian choreographer during an appearance on BBC Breakfast today, after he missed the BBC show for the first time ever on Saturday night.
The 61-year-old appeared to be on a night out and was pictured smoking with pals, after blaming his absence on work commitments.
However, Shirley, 57, has claimed Bruno was still at work when he was spotted, as she revealed what she really thinks of her fellow panelists.
When asked if the star needed a “break” by hosts Louise Minchin and Dan Walker, the dancer said that wasn’t the case.
Strictly Come Dancing 2017: Shirley Ballas defended Bruno Tonioli on BBC Breakfast today
Strictly Come Dancing 2017: Bruno Tonioli was pictured on what appeared to be a night out in LA
Bruno Tonioli is not on the judging panel this weekend due to a very busy work schedule
Shirley commented: “Well obviously he flies back every week for Dancing With The Stars and Strictly, and I saw the photograph and it was just outside his dressing room.
“I think he just had some people visiting him. You know he’s flamboyant and lovely. We missed him on the show this week and Craig [Revel Horwood] is just a pussycat.”
It comes just hours after Bruno appeared to be enjoying the nightlife across the pond with Brit Lizzie Cundy.
He accidentally flashed his stomach in a tight, white shirt, which appeared to have very few buttons fastened.
Strictly Come Dancing 2017: Bruno Tonioli was seen smoking while chatting to pals
Bruno Tonioli ABSENT from Strictly judges panel
Strictly Come Dancing 2017: Bruno Tonioli missed the show on Saturday
He teamed his top with camel chino trousers and smart shoes, after viewers hit out at him for failing to appear alongside Shirley, Craig, 52, and Darcey Bussell.
A spokesperson previously told The Sun: “As was always the plan, Bruno is not on the judging panel this weekend due to a very busy work schedule.
“He will be back as normal for our Halloween special and the rest of the series.”
Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday at 6.35pm on BBC One.