The future of Strictly Come Dancing has been officially confirmed for 2026, despite a major scandal involving the arrest of a former star on suspicion of rape. The BBC has decided to continue with the flagship dance programme, which is currently in its 23rd series.
Police Investigation Underway
Hertfordshire Police confirmed that a man was arrested in London on 13th October on suspicion of rape. The alleged incident is reported to have occurred in Hertfordshire during 2024. The individual has since been released on police bail while inquiries continue.
A police statement clarified: "A man was released on police bail under investigation, having been arrested in London on Monday, 13 October, on suspicion of rape. The allegations relate to an incident which happened in Hertfordshire during 2024." They emphasised it would be inappropriate to comment further due to the ongoing nature of the investigation.
The BBC has maintained a firm stance, with a spokesperson stating: "It would not be appropriate to comment on an ongoing police investigation." According to reports, the woman involved in the alleged incident was not a professional dancer or contestant but had met the man through his connection to the show.
A Series of Scandals for the Hit Show
This arrest marks the second serious incident to involve a Strictly Come Dancing star in recent months. Just two months prior, in August, another star was detained by the Metropolitan Police over allegations of rape and non-consensual intimate image abuse.
This latest controversy adds to a challenging period for the programme. The show is also preparing for the departure of its long-standing hosts, Claudia Winkelman and Tess Daly, who will leave at the end of the current series.
Furthermore, the show faced previous allegations of misconduct involving professional dancer Giovanni Pernice in 2023. While a BBC investigation cleared him of the most serious complaints, some issues raised by his former partner, actress Amanda Abbington, were upheld.
Commission Secure for 2026
Despite the turbulence, The Mirror understands that the show's position on the BBC is secure. It has been confirmed that Strictly Come Dancing is still commissioned for 2026, and there are no active plans to remove it from the broadcaster's schedule.
This decision indicates the BBC's commitment to the popular entertainment programme, which remains a ratings winner, even as it navigates these off-screen difficulties.
If you've been the victim of sexual assault, you can access help and resources via www.rapecrisis.org.uk or calling the national telephone helpline on 0808 802 9999.
