End Of An Era: Bruce Forsyth Bows Out As Strictly Come Dancing Host

Sir Brucie has official retired from presenting duties on Strictly Come Dancing after a 10-year stint.  The 86-year-old may be leaving as co-host of the hit BBC television programme but he hasn't turned his back on show business for good. "After 10 wonderful years and 11 series, I believe it is now the right time to step down from the rigours of presenting the Strictly live shows," Forsyth said. "I am very proud of what the show has achieved and confident it will entertain the nation for many years to come. I am also delighted that by presenting the Christmas and Children In Need shows I will continue to have a strong association with Strictly. "In addition, I am looking forward to the specials planned with the BBC as well as some live theatre shows, so before anyone asks, I am not retiring quite yet."

Sir Bruce is one of the great showbiz legends of our time and our success is due in vast amounts to him. This is not farewell! — BBC Strictly (@bbcstrictly) April 4, 2014

BBC entertainment commissioner, Mark Linsey, has a lot of love for Sir Brucie. "One of the joys of my job is working with Sir Bruce Forsyth and long may that continue," he said. "He is the all-time master and commander when it comes to Great British entertainers and Strictly owes him such a great deal. This is not a farewell, but you can't blame him for wanting to take things a little bit easier."