BBC bosses are said to have a "terrible, terrible fear" that this year's Strictly Come Dancing series will be marred by scandal yet again, with measures in place to vet contestants rigorously. The dance show has been haunted by controversy in recent years, and the latest incident involves EastEnders actor and 2024 star Jamie Borthwick. He was recently suspended by the BBC following his use of an offensive term towards disabled individuals during filming in Blackpool for Strictly.
Previously, Giovanni Pernice was accused of bullying and aggressive actions by dance partner Amanda Abbington, prompting a thorough internal probe. Earlier, in May, radio presenter Wynne Evans confirmed his departure after the station opted not to extend his contract. This was after an "inappropriate and unacceptable" comment he made during the launch event for the Strictly Come Dancing live tour last December about host Janette Manrara. The BBC is said to be meticulously scrutinising potential competitors. Amongst those rumoured to be in the running are Blue Peter hosts Joel Mawhinney and Shini Muthukrishnan, alongside Tom Parker Bowles, who is Queen Camilla's son, reports MailOnline.
I'm A Celebrity star Georgia Toffolo is reportedly being considered, as is Girls Aloud singer Nicola Roberts. Newlywed and former Love Island star Dani Dyer is also said to be under consideration with ex-Coronation Street actress Helen Flanagan another top choice for bosses.
"There is a terrible, terrible fear among those high up that these awful things are going to keep happening and the show will be brought into disrepute again and again," a well-placed BBC insider revealed to MailOnline. "With that in mind, they are taking no chances.
