RTÉ bosses are considering putting 2FM presenter Laura Fox under the glare of the glitterball spotlight as a co-host on the next season of Dancing with the Stars, when Doireann Garrihy is away on maternity leave.
Although RTÉ has not yet made a final decision on whether or not to proceed with a ninth series of show, sources this weekend predicted the ratings hit will be returning to TV screens next January.
And they indicated Montrose chiefs are 'eyeing up' Fox as a potential replacement for co-presenter Doireann, who is preparing for the arrival of her first child.
Presenting RTÉ's most popular programme alongside Jennifer Zamparelli would be a major boost to rising star Fox's career.
And sources said producers have already identified the popular Galway girl as a stand-in for Garrihy.
A station insider told the Irish Mail on Sunday: 'Word is RTÉ and [production company] Shinawhil are eyeing up Laura to host Dancing [with the Stars] alongside Jennifer.
'Laura really fits the bill. She's lively, bubbly, fun and she has really proved herself as a solid TV presenter on shows like Ireland's Fittest Family.
'She has also been a contestant on Dancing, so she can bring that experience of being on the dance floor when she is talking to contestants after their dance.'
'So Laura really is an all-rounder and the perfect fit to take over from Doireann while she is on maternity leave.'
It has also been speculated that Westlife star and former DWTS host Nicky Byrne could be in line to make a surprise return.
'There's also talk of Nicky making a comeback, but Laura is more likely to land the gig,' the source added.
RTÉ did not respond to queries from the MoS this weekend but previously said that while the ninth series of Dancing with the Stars has not yet been confirmed, the 'commissioning process will take place in due course'.
Fox's fellow 2FM presenter Garrihy and her new husband, podcaster Mark Meighan, announced in April that they are expecting their first child.
The couple, who tied the knot last year, shared the news on Instagram with photos holding their baby scan. The snap was accompanied by the caption: 'We are beside ourselves with joy. Here's to the greatest chapter yet.'
Ahead of their new arrival, Garrihy and Meighan are enjoying their final months as a twosome, soaking up the sun on holiday in Spain.
The 2FM presenter posted a video montage to her followers on social media this week with the caption: 'One last bit of galavanting [sic] as a duo (please god). So grateful and so excited for the coming weeks of working, nesting, and prepping!' Garrihy also shared pictures of her showing off her radiant pregnancy glow, and others of the couple laughing over dinner.
