Kevin Clifton ‘will quit’ Strictly whether or not he wins with Stacey Dooley

STRICTLY pro Kevin Clifton is set to waltz off into the sunset after this series – whether or not he wins the glitterball trophy with Stacey Dooley.

The dance maestro is hot favourite to secure his first victory in the contest next weekend alongside the BBC documentary maker.

But he has told fellow dancers that this year is likely to be his last, amid tensions with his estranged wife Karen on the Strictly set.

As a result, BBC bosses are scouring the dance world to find a hot new talent who could replace the Grimsby-born star.

A source said: “Kevin has been overheard backstage saying he feels the time is right for him to move on and that winning the contest won’t weigh heavily on his decision.

“He has absolutely loved his time on the show and the opportunities that it’s given him but he is getting itchy feet and there’s still tension with Karen. While things are slowly getting more civil between them, it’s not exactly fun spending time around your ex.”

Producers are relieved, as they feared female celebs in relationships would not want to be paired with the snake-hipped star after two of his celebrity partners have split from their other halves during his five years on the show.

Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid split from partner Dominic Cotton, singer Louise Redknapp split from hubby Jamie and now Stacey’s boyfriend is said to be “insanely jealous” over their dance partnership.

The source continued: “Kevin had played a pivotal role in the curse of Strictly and it’s a real concern of bosses that they won’t be able to sign up big names for fear of their relationships breaking down.”

During his time on Strictly, Kevin has clocked up four consecutive final spots and seventh place with partner Susan Calman last year.

But he is now eyeing a move into theatre after swapping a spot on the Strictly tour to star as Stacee Jaxx in West End musical Rock Of Ages, as well as running a dance academy with his sister, former Strictly champ Joanne.

The source continued: “Kevin has definitely been influenced by the turn Joanne’s career has taken since leaving Strictly.

“She was only on it for two years but has become a leading lady in musical theatre off the back of it. He’s also planning to put a lot more time into his dance academy and would like to explore more work projects with his sister.”

Last night a spokesman for Kevin said he is committed to the show.