Loraine Barry has addressed Julian Benson’s shock departure from Dancing With The Stars.
The popular programme will return to RTÉ One on Sunday, but Julian will be replaced on the judging panel by choreographer Arthur Gourounlian.
The decision was confirmed by RTÉ late last year, when the broadcaster finally announced the show would return in 2022 after a year-long hiatus.
Speaking to RSVP Live ahead of the show’s return, Loraine insisted Julian will “always” be a part of the show.
“Julian is a great human being. His sparkles, humour, wit and character,” she said.
“We will miss him but he will always be attached to the show.”
On Friday night, Julian sent his love to everyone taking part in Dancing With The Stars in a post shared on Instagram.
He wrote: “I just want to send all my love and some magic sparkle dust to all the team, pros, celebs and judges for Season 5 of Dancing with the Stars.”
“I will miss you all and who knows what the future will hold but I know you will all be Smashtastic!”
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“Enjoy every minute! It’s gonna be Box Office Gold! Cha cha boom!” he added.
A host of the show’s professional dancers commented on the post, saying he would be missed.
His replacement Arthur also commented: “Julian what a beautiful message. Thank you for sending the SPARKLEDUST 💫 our way. Happy New Year and stay safe ♥️ Bisous.”
The new series of Dancing with the Stars premieres this Sunday, January 9, at 6.30pm on RTÉ One.
