EXCLUSIVE: Strictly Come Dancing’s 2025 lineup has been slammed as “the worst yet” by unimpressed BBC viewers online, and the show’s recent scandals may have something to do with it
Strictly Come Dancing’s lineup for 2025 has been bashed as the “worst ever” and there could be one crucial explanation.
Speaking on behalf of Betfred, Celebrity PR Specialist Kayley Cornelius spoke exclusively to Daily Star and said: “The show’s recent scandals will likely be the final straw for the few stars who might have been tempted to sign up. Many have major brand images to protect and their management may now be quick to advise against taking the risk of being caught in the middle, or even loosely associated with, any controversy.”
“With the financial and career rewards no longer what they once were and with so many other opportunities on the table, unless a celebrity has a genuine passion for dance Strictly offers little real incentive to sign up.”
Kayley noted that the “length and intensity of the process is a likely deterrent” as taking part in the BBC competition series “can demand a star’s full attention for up to 13 weeks”. This means that the broadcaster would need to “compensate for loss of earning potential,” which could mean “hundreds of thousands, if not millions” to match what the celebrity could earn somewhere else.
READ MORE: Phillip Schofield clings onto male companion as he leaves bar after failed TV comebackREAD MORE: Jeremy Clarkson needs to ‘grow a pair’ as farmer slams tearful TV scenes
Budgets could also be a contributing factor, as the BBC’s scope to hire big names may have been affected “meaning producers may now be priced out of your typical A-list celebrity.”
Kayley explained: “In the past, Strictly worked so well for stars because audiences had fewer entertainment options and traditional TV was the main source of media consumption. However, with the evolution of digital platforms and the growth of social media the industry has been turned on its head.”
“Consumers now have far more choice in what they watch, with YouTube, TikTok and online podcasts often favoured especially by Gen Z, who make up a large portion of the media audience.”
Social media allows celebs to “control their own content, image and connect directly with their audience”. Also, many big names “can earn anything from five to six figures per sponsored post,” which “could easily eclipse Strictly’s talent budget.”
“[On social media] Stars can take on multiple smaller projects for less time and still make more overall than they would by committing to a single 13-week contract. The variety of digital formats also allows them to target niche communities and speak directly to audiences that align with their brand.”
Have you joined Threads? Follow Daily Star to keep up to date on all things showbiz here
Want all the biggest Showbiz and TV news straight to your inbox? Sign up for our free Daily Star Showbiz newsletter
