No dancing for Natasha

Natasha Kaplinsky has reportedly been axed from Strictly Come Dancing, because BBC chiefs fear viewers may get "bored" of her.

16:42 25 September 2005

Natasha Kaplinsky has reportedly been axed from Strictly Come Dancing, because BBC chiefs fear viewers may get "bored" of her.

The pretty newsreader stole the limelight during the first series of the talent show after dancing her way to victory with professional partner Brendan Cole.

She also went on to co-host the second series of the ballroom dancing extravaganza alongside Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly.

But a BBC source told the People newspaper that the channel's bosses were concerned that appearances on popular entertainment programmes were damaging her image as a serious newscaster.

In addition to presenting Strictly Come Dancing, the 32-year-old BBC Breakfast host has also fronted the BAFTA awards and the show to select Britain's Eurovision entry, Making Your Mind Up.

Commenting on the alleged decision to end Natasha's dancing days, an unnamed BBC1 insider told the People: "As much as we love her here we are getting a bit concerned she is over-exposed on the channel.

"We are close to the point where viewers may become bored of her."

Strictly Come Dancing will reportedly return to our screens next month without Natasha.