Strictly has 'lost its magic' - but ex-pros reveal how it can be saved after endless scandals liennhi

'Strictly had a magic and it was very innocent - it’s probably lost a little bit of that," says Brendan Cole(Image: PA)

Strictly Come Dancing has long been the diamond in the BBC ’s crown ever since it waltzed onto our screens back in 2004. But over the last few years, the beloved show has become more of a thorn in the corporation’s side after having to deal with an endless stream of scandals.

Most recently, Jamie Borthwick - who was partnered with new pro Michelle Tsiakkas last year - was suspended from his 19-year role on EastEnders for using a derogatory term about disabled people. The 30-year-old actor has since apologised, but the incident occurred while he was filming Strictly and used the slur to describe locals in Blackpool. 

It came just months after radio presenter Wynne Evans was axed from the Strictly tour, and subsequently let go from the BBC entirely, after he was caught on camera making a ‘spit roast’ remark. At the time, he apologised - though has since claimed he was “horrified” at the way the statement was issued by the BBC. 

Yet questions about the future of Strictly were already drawn last year following the bullying probe launched into the behaviour of professional dancers. What followed was a tightening of rules in training sessions and the BBC show having the fewest female celebrities in its 20-year history.

So after everything that’s happened and the changes it has undergone, can the show still be saved?

Jamie Borthwick's BBC suspension comes soon after Wynne Evans' axing(Image: PA)