The glitterball has been well and truly tarnished as a major scandal forces the BBC to take drastic action on its flagship entertainment show, Strictly Come Dancing.
A professional dancer has been sensationally dropped from the upcoming 2024 series following serious allegations regarding their conduct with a former celebrity partner. The decision sends shockwaves through the Strictly community just as preparations for the new season were beginning.
The Heart of the Scandal
While the BBC has remained tight-lipped on naming the individual, the controversy centres on the alleged exchange of 'flirty messages' between the professional and their former dance partner. This breach of professional boundaries has prompted a major internal review of the duty of care protocols afforded to all celebrities taking part in the high-pressure competition.
The scandal has cast a dark shadow over the show, famed for its sparkle and feel-good atmosphere. An insider revealed the decision was not taken lightly, stating, "There is a feeling that the professional in question stepped way over the line and that ultimately caused a fracture in the relationship with their celebrity partner."
Giovanni Pernice at the Centre of the Storm
All evidence points to Italian dancer Giovanni Pernice being the professional at the centre of the controversy. His partnership with actress Amanda Abbington on the 2023 series was notoriously fraught, ending with her abrupt withdrawal from the competition for what were initially called 'medical reasons'.
The situation escalated when Amanda reportedly met with Giovanni's previous celebrity partner, Ranvir Singh, leading to speculation they were comparing notes on their difficult experiences. The BBC was then forced to launch a formal investigation into Giovanni's conduct, a probe that is understood to be ongoing.
Fallout and Future of Strictly
The axing of a top-tier pro has thrown the production schedule into chaos. With the new series typically beginning in September, producers are now scrambling to finalise the professional lineup and partnerships.
This incident raises significant questions about the welfare of participants on one of British television's most beloved shows. A source emphasised the gravity of the situation: "The professional has been axed. They won't be back this year and it's thrown the show into chaos."
For now, the BBC is facing a crisis of confidence as it works to protect the integrity of Strictly Come Dancing and reassure future stars that their well-being is the top priority.
