September 2nd 2024.
Strictly Come Dancing, the popular BBC One show, may cause some controversy this year as it has been reported that there will be no same-sex celebrity and professional pairings. This is a change from the past four series, which have featured at least one same-sex pairing since professionals Johannes Radabe and Graziano di Prima made history by dancing together in 2019. However, their performance received 189 complaints from viewers, which judge Bruno Tonioli called "sad." Despite this backlash, the show continued to push for diversity and inclusivity, with ex-boxer Nicola Adams and professional Katya Jones becoming the first same-sex pairing in 2020. Unfortunately, they had to withdraw after four weeks when Adams tested positive for Covid.
In 2021, Radebe and celebrity chef John Whaite became the first same-sex pairing to reach the finals, and comedian Jayde Adams and Karen Hauer also danced together in 2022. However, this year, the Mail on Sunday reports that there will be no same-sex couples on the show. According to a source, the producers made this decision a month ago, reasoning that while the BBC wants to be seen as inclusive and progressive, not everyone will be accepting of same-sex pairings. This news comes after a series of controversies, including allegations of mistreatment of celebrities by professional dancers in the rehearsal room.
Last year, di Prima was partnered with former Love Island star Zara McDermott, but they were eliminated fifth. Several months later, it was reported that there were "physical incidents" between the two, with allegations that di Prima kicked and hit McDermott. In response, McDermott stated that there were videos of these incidents and that they were "incredibly distressing" to watch. Di Prima also expressed regret for his actions and stated that he was not an abusive man. Another controversy involved actress Amanda Abbington quitting the show while partnered with Giovanni Pernice, citing "medical reasons." She later alleged that Pernice was "nasty" and "awful" and accused him of bullying her. The BBC launched an investigation, which Pernice has denied, and the show has now introduced new welfare measures for the 2024 series, including having a chaperone present during training sessions.
Despite the controversy, the show must go on, and the new series will feature a diverse lineup, including Towie's Pete Wicks, Miranda actress Sarah Hadland, comedian Chris McCausland, Love Island contestant Tasha Ghouri, Go Compare singer Wynne Evans, JLS singer JB Gill, DIY SOS star Nick Knowles, former footballer Paul Merson, 80s music icon Toyah Willcox, BBC Morning Live star Dr Punam Krishan, former England hockey player Sam Quek MBE, Gladiators athlete Montell Douglas, Olympic swimmer Tom Dean, EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick, and The X Factor winner Shayne Ward. The show will premiere on September 14th, and the BBC has been reached for comment. If you have a celebrity story, video, or pictures, you can contact the entertainment team via email, phone, or by visiting their website.
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