The 2024 season of Strictly Come Dancing is due to launch in little over a week's time - but the show is set to return under a thundercloud of abuse controversy.
Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke has insisted the 2024 season will be as fun filled and glitzy as ever - despite the show being steeped in controversy.
Du Beke, a mainstay of the show since its inception in 2004, has said that the show “won’t feel different at all,” and he’s convinced the new season will be “brilliant.” His comments come after a year of allegations of abusive behavior behind the scenes, beginning with Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington, 50, who complained about the behavior of her professional dance partner Giovanni Pernice, 33. Pernice has denied these allegations.
Abbington’s accusations sparked a flurry of similar complaints from fellow former celebrity and professional participants, creating an impression that the light entertainment show harbors a deeply toxic work atmosphere behind-the-scenes. The show is set to return for its 22nd season on Saturday 14 September, but it seems those that are fronting the series are continuing as though everything is still sunshine and rainbows.
Anton, 58, did gloss over the abrupt exit of Giovanni and fellow professional Graziano Di Prima, 30, who both exited the series following allegations of inappropriate behaviour. Du Beke appeared on ITV’s Loose Women on Thursday to discuss the show's imminent return.
“It will feel magnificent, it won’t feel different at all. It’s going to be brilliant, you’ve got a whole new cast,” Du Beke gushed to the Loose Women panel.
While Du Beke’s assurances might be encouraging to fans, the BBC has been conducting an investigation into Amanda’s claims and had hoped to reach a conclusion ahead of the 2024 season beginning. However, the investigation was reportedly complicated last week when it was claimed Giovanni had tried to contact Amanda during the investigation process, sparking fears the investigation will need to continue and consider new evidence. Giovanni has vehemently denied all abuse claims.
The BBC has implemented new safeguarding measures for the 20th series of the show, which is set to kick off in a few days. A newly appointed production team will be accompanying the celebrity contestants during rehearsals, and will be present at all times to watch out for any signs of inappropriate behaviour. These measures aim to ensure a safer environment for the contestants.
The Future of Strictly
Du Beke’s confident words are likely to be a relief for fans of the show who have been concerned about the allegations and their impact on the future of the beloved programme. However, it is evident that the show has been rocked by these accusations. The investigation into Pernice and the exit of Di Prima are just the tip of the iceberg. Many are questioning the show’s culture and how it treats its contestants, both celebrity and professional.
Dancing Through the Storm
The allegations have undoubtedly tarnished the image of the show, but it’s important to acknowledge that the overwhelming majority of those involved in Strictly have contributed to its success over the years. Many have shared their positive experiences on the show. Du Beke himself is a testament to the show’s ability to foster a positive environment for some. It’s hoped that the show’s producers are taking steps to address the issues raised and that the changes they’ve implemented will be effective in creating a safer and more inclusive workplace for everyone involved.
Only time will tell how the show will be affected by these events. However, it’s clear that Strictly Come Dancing has a lot to overcome to restore its reputation and maintain its appeal. The upcoming season is crucial for the show’s future. It will be a test of how the show will handle the controversy and whether it can overcome the damage done. The dancing will continue, but the real challenge lies in restoring trust and ensuring that all those involved in Strictly feel safe and respected.
