Strictly Come Dancing budget is SLASHED as funding is channelled into increased welfare measures after scandal hit BBC show was rocked by bullying allegations

Strictly Come Dancing budget is SLASHED as funding is channelled into increased welfare measures after scandal hit BBC show was rocked by bullying allegations

As a long-time follower of Strictly Come Dancing, I must say the recent turn of events has left me rather disheartened. The beloved show, which once brought joy and entertainment to millions, now seems to be embroiled in one scandal after another.


The management at BBC has reduced the financial allocation for Strictly Come Dancing as it prepares for its 20th series, due to a string of controversies that may result in compensation for ex-cast members.

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I’ve learned that recent events have led to a reevaluation of expenses on our premium program, following the unfortunate Strictly bullying incident. Insiders at the Corporation have shared this information with me.

Instead funding has been diverted to increased welfare measures on the dance show.

Some managers are worried about potential additional financial difficulties due to a growing number of former celebrities seeking compensation, alleging they were mistreated while working on the program.

The ongoing controversy involves many accusations of inappropriate conduct, resulting in the departures of professional dancers Graziano Di Prima and Giovanni Pernice from the popular Saturday night show after a prolonged run.

Strictly Come Dancing budget is SLASHED as funding is channelled into increased welfare measures after scandal hit BBC show was rocked by bullying allegations

Strictly Come Dancing budget is SLASHED as funding is channelled into increased welfare measures after scandal hit BBC show was rocked by bullying allegations

According to a source, funds were necessary to cover the expenses of chaperones and production for welfare issues, and it remains uncertain how much these accusations will ultimately burden the program. Needless to say, it won’t come cheap. The management decided to reduce the cast members’ roles.

It was quite evident that the lower cast budget affected many Strictly fans, as they found this year’s celebrity roster disappointing upon its reveal earlier this month.

Spectators found it challenging to identify less familiar faces like Dr. Punam Krishnan, a television physician, and Tasha Ghouri, a previous participant on Love Island.

According to the source, only two contestants from this year’s group stand a chance at winning a large amount of money, namely Nick Knowles from DIY SOS and football analyst Paul Merson.

They mentioned that the lineup represents one of our most affordable options to date. We understand that fans might be disheartened, particularly considering the high caliber of stars we’ve had over the past five years.

The 20th anniversary series of Strictly, set to air on September 14, suffered another setback, disappointing its organizers who held optimistic expectations.

A fresh team of production crew members will oversee the most recent show, ensuring they are with the celebrity actors throughout their rehearsals. Their constant presence is intended to detect and address any indications of unsuitable conduct promptly.

The leadership at the BBC felt compelled to implement strong measures to enhance security for celebrities on their shows, following accusations of mistreatment from stars like actress Amanda Abbington and ex-reality star Zara McDermott.

Strictly Come Dancing budget is SLASHED as funding is channelled into increased welfare measures after scandal hit BBC show was rocked by bullying allegations

Last year, Pernice, who has been with Strictly for the longest time among the male professionals, faced accusations of bullying from Abbington during rehearsals. An investigation by the BBC is still being carried out regarding this matter. However, Pernice, aged 33 and hailing from Sicily, vehemently denies any wrongdoing in this case.

Yesterday, The Mail on Sunday disclosed that charges against Pernice were being dropped following Abbington’s allegations. Sources within the BBC stated that no proof of Pernice bullying her was found.

As a steadfast supporter, I’m sharing that the actress is reportedly throwing everything into resolving her case. This includes disclosing to the BBC a brief video clip she received from him on WhatsApp, which friends of mine refer to as her ‘final roll of the dice’.

Sources within the Corporation say it is ‘sex-related’ but in its nature was ‘very much banter’.

According to a source, ‘Amanda is undoubtedly praying that this is the one thing that holds, since it’s the sole item she possesses that could potentially stand up against Giovanni in any meaningful way.’

The report’s findings are not expected until next month.

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2024-08-26 00:48

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