The 'Strictly' champion said not having a live audience supporting contestants meant they were at an added disadvantage.
The dancer feared he'd "look like an idiot" if he did a U-turn on his decision to leave.
He announced his departure in March after seven years on the show.
Show bosses claim they never allow dancers or celebrities to pick their partner
The dancer spent seven years on the BBC programme.
The 2018 'Strictly' champion confessed she took home her sparkly Show Dance dress without permission.
Journalist and 'Strictly' winner Dooley has been too busy working to pick the award up
The dancer has landed the lead in a tour of 'Strictly Ballroom The Musical'.
Many favourites will be back for another year, although there is one notable absence.
The presenter, who has been dating Kevin Clifton since last year, said suggestions she was behind him quitting were 'utter nonsense'.
The dancer said it was time to focus on other things.
The 37-year-old professional dancer had the inking on his foot a year ago after making a promise to 'Strictly' partner, comedian Susan Calman.
The professional dancer surprised BBC Breakfast hosts Dan Walker and Louise Minchin.
The number also featured Anton du Beke and Kevin Clifton singing together.
The new judge may not be quite up to speed on the events of the 2018 series.
The head judge was still recovering from an operation earlier in the week.
The paralympic table tennis player missed last week's live show due to a knee injury which could now see him pull out of the series.
He may not be lifting the Glitterball Trophy again this year, but she's still his biggest fan.
The show favourite usually expects to be in work until Christmas.
Kevin Clifton was quick to reassure everyone that it was just his phone.
The show's Mr Nasty has no intention of toning it down to save celebrities' feelings.
The 60-year-old TV presenter revealed Anton Du Beke threw her in the air when she already had an injured shoulder.
The professionals both had their eye on the investigative journalist during the BBC show's compatibility tests.
The professional dancer has stopped drinking after attended a self-help course.
The 60-year-old TV presenter has invited her Strictly dance partner Kevin Clifton and his girlfriend Stacey Dooley for dinner.