Judge called her his "dear friend".
Strictly Come Dancing judge Bruno Tonioli has broken his silence on the departure of fellow judge Dame Darcey Bussell, calling her a "dear friend".
The former ballet dancer confirmed her exit from the series yesterday (April 10), saying she was leaving "to give more focus to my many other commitments in dance".
Bruno has now paid tribute to Darcey on Instagram by sharing a clip of her dancing to Adele on the show back in 2012 – her first year as a judge.
"Can we just take a moment and appreciate my dear friend and the incredible talent that is @darceybussellofficial," he wrote.
"Found this amazing clip performing an American smooth to @adele #bbcstrictly #dancer #friendship #balletdancer."
Speaking of her exit, Darcey said it had been a "complete privilege" to be part of the BBC One series.
"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," she said in a statement.
"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.
"I know I will miss being part of this unique show and the fact that it celebrates dance is something I am so passionate about. I hope that I may be very lucky to be asked back again one day."
Following the news, speculation has been rife over who will replace Darcey, with former contestant Ruth Langsford suggesting they will pick a woman.
Strictly Come Dancing returns for its 2019 series on BBC One later this year.
Strictly fans call Alfonso's Bruno impression "spot on"