Strictly Come Dancing chaos as third professional 'refuses Covid-19 vaccine'

Strictly Come Dancing is facing yet more problems after reports that a third professional dancer has refused to get their Covid-19 vaccine.

With a further two professionals already declining the jab as well as one testing positive for Covid it’s a further blow to show producers who are desperate to keep everyone fit and healthy.

An insider has claimed the refusal from the paired-up dancer is also causing resentment among cast members and the crew.

However, show bosses are not allowed to challenge anyone on their vaccine status.

The source claimed to The Sun: “Producers are dreading an outbreak of Covid on the new series, which is a crucial part of the autumn schedule.

“They are taking every possible precaution to make the set as safe as possible, particularly as the studio audience is returning”

Meanwhile, a Strictly spokesperson maintained that the safety of everyone involved in making the show is their absolute priority.

They told the Daily Star: “We do not comment on speculation of somebody’s Covid vaccination status.

“Strictly Come Dancing production has, and will, continue to follow strict government guidelines to ensure the safety of all on the show.”

BBC producers have put strict guidelines in place to ensure things run smoothly and that there is minimal disruption to the show as the season wears on.

New quarantine rules have made it possible for any contestants who do test positive for Covid-19 to take a small break from production before returning to the competition.

Executive producer Sarah James explained: “If a celebrity does receive a positive test, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are out of the competition. It might mean they could miss a week and still get enough training in to return.”

This means that even if there is an outbreak of the disease on set, the show may not be plunged into complete chaos as cast members drop off the weekly live shows.

The current series kicked off on Saturday with a pre-recorded offering that saw the full line-up of celebrity contestants matched with their professional dance partners.

Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday at 7.30 pm on BBC One.

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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk