The glitterball has lost some of its shine as the BBC's flagship entertainment show, Strictly Come Dancing, faces a significant viewer backlash. Exclusive overnight ratings reveal a startling drop in audience figures, directly coinciding with the escalating scandal surrounding professional dancer Giovanni Pernice.
The controversy erupted when his former celebrity partner, Amanda Abbington, abruptly quit the competition mid-series last year, citing "personal reasons." However, reports soon surfaced alleging that the Sherlock actress had found Pernice's intense training methods "militant" and "brutal," leading to a formal complaint.
Viewer Exodus: The Numbers Don't Lie
The data paints a damning picture for the corporation. The launch show for the 2023 series, which aired in September, attracted a strong audience of 8.2 million viewers. Yet, fast forward to the recent finale, and the numbers told a different story. The climactic episode could only muster an average of 7.6 million viewers, a notable decline that industry insiders are linking directly to the ongoing scandal.
This viewer exodus suggests a growing disconnect between the show and its loyal fanbase, who have been captivated by the drama unfolding away from the dancefloor.
A Storm of Official Complaints
The audience's dissatisfaction has been formally registered. The BBC has been inundated with over 400 official complaints from concerned viewers. The grievances centre on the perceived mishandling of the situation and the alleged failure of producers to adequately duty of care towards its celebrity contestants.
The scandal has sparked a wider debate about the intense pressure and gruelling rehearsal schedules inherent in the show, questioning where the line is drawn between rigorous training and unacceptable behaviour.
BBC's Response and the Future of Strictly
In response to the furore, the BBC has issued a statement standing by its protocols. A spokesperson said, "The BBC offers a comprehensive range of support to all individuals taking part in our shows. We are deeply proud of the Strictly Come Dancing record and continually strive to make the production a positive experience for all involved."
Despite the broadcaster's defence, the reputational damage is palpable. The question now looming over Elstree Studios is whether this scandal will have a lasting impact on the future of the world's most famous dance competition. Can Strictly regain its footing and win back the trust of its audience, or has the magic been permanently broken?
