Brendan Cole thinks this year’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ pros "need a bit more personality".
The 42-year-old professional dancer – who controversially exited the Latin and ballroom programme after 15 series – has criticised this year’s dancers, insisting they could be giving a bit more on the show.
Speaking on ‘Loose Women’, Brendan said: "Being able to express my opinion when I’m not employed by the BBC is a very nice thing. I can be quite, honest quite direct.
"It’s so far so good, they maybe need a bit more personality from maybe the pros."
Spice Girl and ‘Loose Women’ panellist Mel B then asked about his ‘Strictly’ departure, bluntly asking: "Why are you not back?"
The professional dancer admitted he is not the easiest person to work with, because he knows his own mind and does not "say yes to everything."
He said: "The execs make these decisions on the show, and I would if it was my show, I’d be like, ‘This is what I want and this is what I don’t want.’
"I’m not a yes person. I don’t say yes to everything. I question things if I believe that they’re wrong. I do that quite often, as you’ve seen throughout all the series."
The heartthrob – who is married to British model Zoe Hobbs – spoke positively about his time on the show, and is looking forward to a new chapter in his career.
He said: "I don’t think what happened with me was a singular incident.
"I’ve had 15 fantastic series on the show. Now is a brand new chapter.
"I love the fact that the show’s still as big as ever, and I love the fact that people are celebrating it."