Arlene Phillips could make a return to Strictly, according to reports.

The choreographer was one of the original judges but was notably replaced by Alesha Dixon in 2009, sparking an ageism row.

According to The Sun, Arlene’s now being considered to fill Len Goodman’s seat.

Len Goodman is leaving Strictly (Ian West/PA Archive)
Len Goodman (Ian West/PA)

A source was quoted as saying: “Producers have a limited pool to pick from for Len’s replacement and they know that Arlene would be a shock to the audience but they would love it.

“This time her age actually works in her favour as part of the BBC’s new diversity and gender targets.”

Arlene recently spoke about wanting to go back to the BBC1 show.

Arlene Phillips (Ian West/PA)
Arlene Phillips (Ian West/PA)

“Len is going, and as always, when the BBC said goodbye, the BBC do what the BBC want to do, so I have no clue,” she told Good Morning Britain.

But a Strictly spokesman hasn’t confirmed the report, saying: “It is far to early to speculate about the 2017 series. Right now we are focussing on making Len’s last series… the best one yet.”

Head judge Len is stepping down after this year, making the next season his final series.

Len Goodman and Anton du Beke
Len Goodman and Anton du Beke (Joel Ryan/PA)

Strictly Come Dancing judge Darcey Bussell has previously backed Anton Du Beke to fill Len’s soon-to-be vacant seat.