James Jordan has lashed out at 'Strictly Come Dancing' for axing Brendan Cole.

James Jordan

James Jordan

The professional dancer - who was given the boot from the programme in 2013 - is devastated that the 41-year-old choreographer has been ditched from this year's line up but is convinced it's just because bosses didn't like his controversial tongue.

Taking to his Twitter account this morning (30.01.18), James, 39, said: "Just seen my mate @BrendanCole has not been asked back on Strictly. Seems like they don't want anyone on the show that has an opinion.

"Especially when he played a massive part in making the show what it is today. Wishing him all the best in his future endeavours. Will be missed (sic)"

Brendan announced the news this morning and admitted he was heartbroken by the decision but he will still tune in to watch the show to support his friends.

He explained: "It's quite, actually, hard to talk about. The BBC haven't renewed my contract. We get contracted year upon year. They've made an editorial decision to not have me back on the show. I'm a little bit in shock. I'm quite emotional, a bit raw about it. It's done via a process of a phone call and stuff. I have had 15 incredible series on the show. I'm very proud of the whole show. It's a great team. I'm disappointed. It's very hard to talk about. It's a recent decision.

"I've always known this day would come. To get to this point, the BBC make the decisions year upon year. It's an editorial decision. I'm sure I'll never know the ins and outs. I'm a very strong character within the show, I have my strong views.

"...I feel like I've made a massive difference to the show. Even though the show has a different team, I will always be one of the ones who was part of the journey who got it to where it is today. And to not be a part of that is hard.

"It's going to be hard for me to watch but I'm a fan of the show and the show comes first. They've made the decision and I respect it completely - I don't like it very much - but I still want to support my friends. I'm a strong character in the show and they won't have that anymore. No one will argue with the judges."