Comedian and writer Katy Brand has launched a stinging critique against the producers of Strictly Come Dancing, recounting her experience during the show's 2012 Christmas Special. Brand, now 47, partnered with professional dancer Anton Du Beke for a Viennese Waltz that placed second to last on the leaderboard, but her grievances extend far beyond the scoring.
Refusing Scripted Humour
In a detailed Instagram post, Brand disclosed that producers attempted to feed her specific jokes for her introductory video package. She was asked to say, "I live to make people laugh," and, "When I heard I was doing a Viennese Waltz, I was confused, because I thought that was a biscuit." The comedian firmly refused to utter either line on camera.
"I flatly refused to say either of those things on camera," Brand stated, encouraging her followers to take control of their own brand messaging. Her revelation offers a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes scripting often involved in reality television segments.
Dame Sheila Hancock's Defiant Response
Brand further shared an anecdote involving fellow 2012 contestant, the esteemed actress Dame Sheila Hancock, then 86. According to Brand, the same producer approached Dame Sheila with a suggested line: that participating in Strictly was "the role I have been dreaming of all my life."
The veteran actress, whose career includes acclaimed stage performances, reportedly delivered a withering retort. "Darling, I’ve played Lady Macbeth," she told the producer, effectively dismissing the proposed dialogue. Brand expressed admiration for Hancock's stance, noting, "I adored her."
BBC's Search for New Presenters
This criticism emerges as the BBC undertakes a major overhaul of the Strictly presenting team. Following the departures of long-time hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly last year, the corporation is conducting secret auditions in London this week.
Nine shortlisted celebrities are participating in full-scale dress rehearsals, complete with a judging panel and live band, under strict non-disclosure agreements. The process focuses heavily on on-screen chemistry and humour.
The reported contenders include:
- Rylan Clark
- Emma Willis
- Tom Allen
- Angela Scanlon
- Alex Jones
- Alison Hammond
- Bradley Walsh
- La Voix
- Zoe Ball
A New Era for Strictly
Insiders suggest the BBC is open to various hosting combinations, potentially including two female hosts, a male duo, or even a trio to refresh the show's dynamic. "They really want to bring the fun this year," a source explained, emphasising that instant chemistry and live energy are paramount.
The broadcaster is testing multiple pairings, with decisions expected soon. Meanwhile, representatives for the BBC and Dame Sheila Hancock have been contacted for comment regarding Brand's allegations about the 2012 production practices.
Katy Brand, who recently wrote the script for Netflix's The Thursday Murder Club, used her platform to highlight issues of creative control, framing her refusal as an act of personal branding integrity during her brief Strictly stint over a decade ago.
