The popular TV show Strictly Come Dancing, a beloved entertainment staple in the UK for the past 20 years, is facing a scandal that has tarnished its previously pristine reputation. Allegations of bullying and misconduct have surfaced, leading to the firing of professional dancers and changes in the show’s production regime. The controversy started when actress Amanda Abbington abruptly quit the show, citing mistreatment by her partner, Giovanni Pernice. Other concerns from contestants have also emerged, leading to the firing of another dancer, Graziano Di Prima, who was caught on video kicking his partner. The BBC, which produces the show, has promised to address the issues raised with care and sensitivity.
Industry insiders believe that the competitive nature of professional dancing has seeped into the show, creating a more intense environment than initially intended. There are calls for better supervision and guidance for contestants, as well as more transparency from the BBC about the rigors of the competition. While some argue that chaperones could hinder the genuine relationships between dance partners, others believe that they are necessary to prevent abuse and misconduct.
The scandal has raised questions about whether BBC executives were aware of the issues on the show and how they were handling them. Resurfaced clips from early seasons of Strictly show behavior that would be considered unacceptable by today’s standards, indicating a potential lack of oversight in the past. Despite the challenges facing the show, it remains a beloved fixture in British television, with a loyal fan base and a strong legacy.
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