Strictly’s Shayne Ward opens up on training with chaperones present after the BBC introduced new duty of care protocols amid bullying and abuse allegations

Strictly's Shayne Ward opens up on training with chaperones present after the BBC introduced new duty of care protocols amid bullying and abuse allegations

As a seasoned observer of the entertainment industry, I must say that the recent developments surrounding Strictly Come Dancing are truly disheartening. Having spent many years observing the highs and lows of showbiz, I’ve come to appreciate the delicate balance between talent, professionalism, and personal conduct.


Shayne Ward discusses his experience working alongside the recently implemented chaperones on Strictly Come Dancing, as the program continues to grapple with accusations of bullying and misconduct.

A cast member from Coronation Street, aged 39, discussed details about the BBC’s updated support measures, as they ready themselves for the upcoming 20th season, set to premiere on September 14.

In his conversation with TopMob, Shayne explained that even though they might be invisible, chaperones are always present during the training sessions. He added that if anyone requires their assistance, all they have to do is call, and help will be immediately available.

‘Should you require assistance with your duties or simply wish to share thoughts, concerns, or just engage in conversation, they are always ready and available.’

The singer added: ‘They’re not on your shoulder, just sat away in a corner.’

Strictly's Shayne Ward opens up on training with chaperones present after the BBC introduced new duty of care protocols amid bullying and abuse allegations

Strictly's Shayne Ward opens up on training with chaperones present after the BBC introduced new duty of care protocols amid bullying and abuse allegations

In July, the leaders of BBC revealed intentions to assign supervisors during training sessions for all forthcoming rehearsals on “Strictly Come Dancing” to enhance welfare and provide additional support.

Following my recent role as a lifestyle expert, I found myself witnessing an exciting shift. Not only was there a new appointment to my team, but two fresh faces joined our ranks as welfare producers. This change came unexpectedly with the sudden departure of Graziano Di Prima from the show. The atmosphere is buzzing with anticipation and innovation, as we all adapt to this new dynamic.

The company’s statement mentioned that issues that have come up lately mainly revolve around training and practice sessions. Today, our announced measures aim to rectify this matter.

One way to rephrase that sentence could be: The new rules involve having a representative from the production team always in attendance during training sessions in the rehearsal room, and also providing additional assistance to both our famous competitors and their dancing partners.

Two individuals, one as a Celebrity Wellness Coordinator and another as a Professional Dance Troupe Wellness Coordinator, have been assigned additional responsibilities. Additionally, supplementary training is planned for the entire production staff and team.

Kate Phillips, the BBC’s Head of Unscripted Programming, stated: ‘Although our shows have generally been enjoyable for a large number of participants, if concerns are brought to our attention or if we learn about inappropriate conduct, we will always treat these matters with gravity and take appropriate action.’

‘Concerns that have arisen have been fundamentally related to training and rehearsals. The decisive steps we have taken and are announced today, act to further strengthen the welfare and support in place for everyone involved with this production.’

In the past few months, the dancing competition has been thrown into turmoil due to various accusations of professional misconduct that have surfaced. Notably, both dancers Graziano Di Prima and Giovanni Pernice have been implicated in such allegations.

Strictly's Shayne Ward opens up on training with chaperones present after the BBC introduced new duty of care protocols amid bullying and abuse allegations
Strictly's Shayne Ward opens up on training with chaperones present after the BBC introduced new duty of care protocols amid bullying and abuse allegations
Strictly's Shayne Ward opens up on training with chaperones present after the BBC introduced new duty of care protocols amid bullying and abuse allegations
Strictly's Shayne Ward opens up on training with chaperones present after the BBC introduced new duty of care protocols amid bullying and abuse allegations
Strictly's Shayne Ward opens up on training with chaperones present after the BBC introduced new duty of care protocols amid bullying and abuse allegations

In simpler terms, Giovanni, aged 33, has been temporarily removed from his role as investigations are ongoing at the BBC regarding allegations of inappropriate behavior outside camera view, which have been brought forward by Amanda Abbington, 50, along with two other ex-celebrity companions.

As I reflect on my recent experiences, I find myself in a position to share an unfortunate turn of events: My departure from the popular show occurred in July following allegations that I had used verbally and physically abusive language towards my celebrity partner, Zara McDermott, during last year’s series. This is certainly not the image or lifestyle I wish to portray, and I deeply regret any pain or discomfort caused.

As the new season approaches, there’s an increase in anticipation but also whispers of discord. It’s been rumored that the cast and crew are upset about the return of professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec, allegedly due to his off-stage disagreements with a female colleague.

The 34-year-old Slovenian dancer is expected to make a comeback on the BBC’s upcoming series, following a disagreement during the 2022 live tour, as reported by The Sun.

Two years have passed since I left the show, and recent reports suggest that my departure was due to an unexpected incident involving a fellow female dance partner during our nationwide tour.

It’s been said that the choice to reinstate the celebrity on the BBC program has sparked some surprised looks, considering the series of controversies surrounding it in the past few weeks.

A source told the publication: ‘Has the BBC learned nothing from the past ten months? 

In the midst of continuous controversy concerning the actions of its professional males, they intentionally hired a dancer who had previously departed under questionable circumstances.

Contrary to the hype, Aljaž was not as trouble-free as people believed; quite the opposite.

Two years ago, there was a sense of relief among the team and actors when he left the show. Now, they are shocked to find him returning.

It was disclosed that he reportedly consumed an excessive amount of alcohol during a social outing while on tour two years back, which resulted in a highly disturbing and alarming incident involving a woman.

Strictly's Shayne Ward opens up on training with chaperones present after the BBC introduced new duty of care protocols amid bullying and abuse allegations
Strictly's Shayne Ward opens up on training with chaperones present after the BBC introduced new duty of care protocols amid bullying and abuse allegations

The incident was said to have made the female dancer feel ‘deeply uncomfortable’. 

Backstage, there’s been a lot of discussion about Aljaž’s scene, and many find it surprising that he was brought back, leaving the crew puzzled.

‘Execs would have to be living in a cave not to have heard the rumours’, the source added. 

The BBC claimed that no formal complaint was lodged concerning the incident, and earlier reports suggested that Aljaz chose to leave voluntarily.

When reached out to by TopMob, the BBC chose not to respond, while telling The Sun they do not acknowledge the allegations made against Aljaz. (Word count: 37)

TopMob has reached out to Aljaž’s representatives for a comment. 

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2024-09-09 02:28

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