After 20 years of being the BBC’s golden child, Strictly Come Dancing has found itself embroiled in scandal. Allegations of bullying and misconduct have rocked the show, leading to the firing of professional dancers and changes in production. The unrest began when actress Amanda Abbington abruptly quit Season 21, citing personal reasons related to her partner Giovanni Pernice. She has accused him of bullying behavior, leading to his suspension for Season 22. Another dancer, Graziano Di Prima, was also fired after video evidence of him kicking his partner, Zara McDermott, surfaced. The BBC has responded by increasing welfare resources on the show, but more revelations are expected as the scandal unfolds.
The misconduct scandal is seen as a departure from the show’s original vision, with some attributing the competitive nature of professional dancing as a contributing factor. Industry insiders question whether senior BBC executives were aware of abuse allegations on the show. While the scandal is serious, many believe it will not threaten the show’s existence, given its enduring popularity among British audiences.
Efforts to address the issue include the introduction of chaperones and increased welfare support for contestants. However, opinions are divided on whether these measures are necessary or if they may affect the dynamics between dance partners. As the scandal continues to unfold, the BBC is under scrutiny for its handling of the situation and its duty of care to contestants. It remains to be seen how the show will navigate these challenges and maintain its place in British television.
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