Julian Benson says Karen Byrne joining the Dancing with the Stars judging panel is just what the show needs.
The former pro will link up with Brian Redmond, Loraine Barry and Arthur Gourounlian as a fourth judge when the show returns to screens in the New Year.
Julian, known as Captain Sparkle, was one of the original judges on Dancing with the Stars and he was in the hot seat for four seasons before stepping away in 2022.
Read more: Julian Benson got the "gift of life" after receiving a kidney transplant following years of dialysis
Read more: Karen Byrne says chaperones on Strictly are "ridiculous" and doesn't need anyone to mind her on DWTS
He told RSVP Live: "This is box office news. Karen Byrne as a judge is just what the show needs.
"It will give the show new life and new personality. She knows the graft, she knows her dancing and the people love her.
"She is also salt to the earth. I was delighted to hear the news."
Julian thinks that this major change up will keep Dancing with the Stars fresh for the viewers at home, especially because BBC's Strictly Come Dancing regularly shake things up.
He said: "I love to see the show evolving and it is wonderful to see Karen joining as a fourth judge. I did four amazing seasons.
"People step into shows, they leave and they join all the time. This move is going to make for really good television.
"Karen will say it as she sees it and she will be well able for Brian Redmond and Loraine Barry."
What advice does he have for her? "Judge on what you see. Be fair, be kind and be encouraging. You have to remember that they are amateurs.
"The most important thing is that she is herself on screen because she is wonderful."
Julian has teamed up with Dermot Bannon for a special episode of Room to Improve, which will show off the fundraising efforts of the Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation as they build a home to ensure families can be there to support their loved one when in hospital, at a time when it is most vital.
He said: "We have been fundraising for four years and 2025 will be the year we reveal the house.
"Room to Improve will air in February, so stay tuned to see the house."
Dermot and his clients on Room to Improve have had some famous rows over the years.
Julian joked: "Listen, we have a love/hate relationship. We’re like a married couple.
"Seriously. We are only short of moving in together at this point."
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