The BBC has apologised to Strictly contestants following its ongoing complaints scandal.
Tim Davie, the director general of the broadcaster, said he was “disappointed” to hear that several celeb contestants had complained about alleged abusive behaviour by their dance partners in rehearsals.
He told journalists that there will be “competitiveness, hard work and the will to do well” on the show, “but there are limits and the line should never be crossed”.
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He added: “We will never tolerate unacceptable behaviour of any kind.” When asked whether he is confident that the 2024 series of the show will go ahead, Davie explained that he “needs to be assured we have the right safeguarding” and that there is a “duty of care in place,” which is “the first question I ask.”
(Image: BBC)
“I am assured by the robust actions we have taken in terms of the changes we have made…that we are in a position to deliver a very good season this year and that has been my focus.” Tim said that “with that assurance” he is “looking forward to the next season”.
Davie added: “I’m very sorry that anyone has had an experience on Strictly that hasn’t been wholly positive, I think that is something we do reflect on and I’m sorry about that.”
(Image: SCU)
“Strictly is a wonderful show that brings a lot of joy to a lot of people and has done so for 20 years, to both those involved with the show itself and to millions of people at home. Hundreds of people, be they pros, contestants or crew, have been part of it and had a brilliant experience.”
Tim continued: “At the same time, if someone feels there was something wrong or they wanted to talk about their experience, then, of course, we want them to raise that with us and be in no doubt we will take it seriously, listen and deal with it as appropriate.”
(Image: BBC/Guy Levy)
Davie said he didn’t want to “talk about individuals” as people can “see the evidence of that in recent weeks,” before going on to say that he “hopes anyone who does want to talk to us feels they can.” He also said: “It is vital that we have the right protocols and structures in place for the show. We keep these under review and as you know, we confirmed changes last week. It is essential these are right for everyone.”
“Of course, alongside the fun and entertainment there will be a degree of competitiveness, hard work and a will to do well, that’s part of what makes this show, but there are limits and the line should never be crossed.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
