Strictly Come Dancing has been stepped in scandal over the past two months.
And now, Will Bayley has become the latest celebrity to make allegations about the beloved BBC One dance competition. The table tennis player, who was partnered up with It Takes Two host Janette Manrara back in 2019, spoke out over the weekend.
It comes after Amanda Abbington and Zara McDermott shared the struggles with their former pro partners on the programme. The former Sherlock star has come forward slating Giovanni Pernice for his “unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean” conduct, which he robustly refutes.
READ MORE: Strictly’s Janette Manrara breaks silence after star’s rehearsal complaints
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Meanwhile, Graziano Di Prima was axed from the show over allegations about his treatment to Love Island star Zara McDermott. Now, Daily Star has taken a deep dive into the main issues the show faces ahead of its 20th anniversary series.
What’s the root of Strictly’s problem?
(Image: BBC/Guy Levy)
The nation’s favourite dance show is reeling from a spate of complaints aimed at several of its pro dancers. Former contestants have shared their concerns following the harsh treatment they received from dancers and the poor behaviour displayed during training.
Many have claimed their ballroom partners were too aggressive or overly physical and competitive, reports the Mirror. Zara McDermott expressed her dedication to the competition with Graziano Di Prima last week, but admitted some training videos were “incredibly distressing” to watch back, after a member of staff raised concerns.
Amanda Abbington, who was paired with Giovanni Pernice was also unhappy on the show. She claims the behaviour by pro dancers could be “endemic” on the programme.
(Image: PA)
Following the complaints, Graziano and Giovanni will not appear on the upcoming series and other professionals are also understood to have received complaints. Giovanni vehemently denies any misconduct made by his former partner.
Meanwhile, Graziano admits his “intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime”.
How many celebrities have complained?
(Image: BBC/Guy Levy)
Not all the stars have gone public with their complaints. But it is understood at least three females and one male celebrity are unhappy with their treatment from their pro dancers on the show.
A number of stars, including Amanda Abbington, have enlisted the help of the legal fir, Carter Ruck and lawyers there are thought to be seeking compensation.
What have the BBC done about it?
(Image: BBC)
After the countless complaints, the BBC launched an internal probe. This investigation is expected to conclude shortly.
They also announced a series of new measures on the show last week. Strictly’s professional dancers will no longer be left on their own with their contestants during rehearsals.
Each celebrity will work with a chaperone to police the training sessions. Kate Phillips, BBC’s Director of Unscripted, remarked: “Whilst we know our shows have been positive experiences for the vast majority of those who have taken part, if issues are raised with us, or we’re made aware of inappropriate behaviour, we will always take that seriously and act.
“Concerns that have arisen have been fundamentally related to training and rehearsals. The decisive steps we have taken and are announced today, act to further strengthen the welfare and support in place for everyone involved with this production.”
Will Strictly return to the airwaves this year?
(Image: PA)
Despite recent crisis meetings at the BBC, bosses are pushing ahead with plans to air the next series. They have implemented new measures to ensure a smooth sail this time around.
The Beeb dropped a teaser earlier this month, promising that the upcoming 20th anniversary series would pack a punch “extra special as Strictly turns 20”. It’s all kicking off with cameras rolling on August 21 and the glitz hitting our screens for the live launch on September 4.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
