BBC boss releases apology over Strictly complaints
The 2024 series will go ahead as planned
Last updated 23rd Jul 2024
As the professionals return to the rehearsal room ahead of the 20th anniversary series of Strictly Come Dancing, the BBC's Director General Tim Davie has issued an apology to former contestants who have complaint of abusive behaviour on the show.
Following the departure of both Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima over allegations, Tim confirmed the show would still go ahead whilst admitting he was 'disappointed' to hear of the alleged behaviour from the pros.
Saying he is "very sorry that anyone has had an experience that hasn't been wholly positive", Tim added: "That's something we do need to reflect on and I'm sorry about that.
"There will be a degree of competitiveness and will to do well, but there are limits and the line should never be crossed. We never tolerate unacceptable behaviour of any kind."
Following the allegations and the removal of both Giovanni and Graziano, the BBC confirmed last week they'd reviewed and upgraded welfare policies for the show, which includes a member of production acting as a chaperone in all rehearsals with professional dancers and their celebrity partners.
Speaking about the upcoming series whilst launching the BBC's annual report, Tim added that Strictly is "a wonderful show that brings a lot of joy to a lot of people, and has done so for 20 years, to both those involved with the show itself and to millions of people at home".
He said: "Hundreds of people - be they pros, contestants or crew - have been part of it and have had a brilliant experience.
"At the same time, if someone feels something is wrong and they want to talk, we want them to raise it of course, and be in no doubt that we will take it seriously and deal with it appropriately.
"I won’t talk about individuals, but anyone who wants to talk to us, I hope feels that they can.
"It's vital we have the right protocols and structures and we keep these under review and confirmed changes last week. It is essential these are right for everyone.
"We have a brilliant line-up this year and are keen to get going."
Check out the full rumoured line-up for Strictly 2024:
Delta Goodrem
2026 is set to be a busy year for singer Delta Goodrem. As well as representing Australia at this year's Eurovision Song Contest, reports are rife Delta has very nearly signed up for Strictly later in the year. A source told the Daily Mail newspaper's Eden Confidential column: "It is all but a done deal. They've been trying to get her for years. Obviously, she is a good name for the show."
Josie Gibson
As well as landing a brand new show with ITV/STV called How To Clean Up For Cash, former Big Brother star and This Morning presenter Josie Gibson is reportedly being lined-up for the 2026 series of Strictly.
A source told a national newspaper: "Josie has been on the BBC's radar for a while and they've not given up their pursuit. They're hoping this year is the year, and talks are progressing well. Bosses are convinced her down-to-earth charm will be the boost this year's new-look show needs. Warm and engaging, she's just what they require right now and will be a sure-fire hit with fans."
Stacey Solomon
Another well-known name on this year's rumoured list is Stacey Solomon! Stacey is no strange to working with the BBC, with her show Sort Your Life Out now onto its sixth series, as well as her reality show Stacey & Joe airing last year. With the mum-of-five being a fan favourite, bosses will be keen to get her signature.
Tom Parker Bowles
Food critic Tom Parker Bowles, also known as Queen Camilla's son, was reportedly top of the BBC's wish list for the 2025 series. However, after Tom didn't appear on the line-up, could we see him on the 2026 series?
Dani Dyer
Reality star Dani Dyer was set to take part in the 2025 series, but she was forced to pull out just days ahead of the first live show after fracturing her ankle in training. Dani has expressed her interest in returning, so could we see her in 2026?
The news comes as this year's professional dancers returned to the rehearsal room on Monday 22nd July, with fan favourites such as Dianne Buswell, Vito Coppola, and Gorka Márquez all returning.
Following a two-year hiatus, Aljaž Škorjanec will also return for the 2024 series, whilst Amy Dowden is also back following her cancer battle in 2023.
Strictly Come Dancing will return to BBC One in September.
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Strictly professionals return to work as rehearsals begin for new series
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