Strictly Come Dancing Returns with New Faces and Fresh Energy Amid Controversies
The excitement is palpable as Strictly Come Dancing makes its grand return to BBC One this Saturday night, kicking off its landmark 20th anniversary season. Fans of the beloved show can once again look forward to the dazzling lights, extravagant costumes, and glittering performances that have made it a staple of Saturday night TV. However, this year's launch is tempered by a backdrop of recent controversies that have cast a shadow over the show's otherwise festive atmosphere.
Strictly's co-creator and first executive producer, Karen Smith, has expressed hope that the new season will allow the show to "move forward" from recent controversies. In an interview with BBC News, Smith acknowledged that while the issues might not be forgotten overnight, there is a strong desire to learn from them and restore the show to its former glory. "Strictly is fabulous," Smith emphasized, "People love it, they love participating, and they love watching it."
Also Read:- UFC 306: Sean O'Malley vs. Merab Dvalishvili Headlines a Thrilling Fight Night
- Wisconsin Faces Tough Challenge Against Alabama: Can the Badgers Pull Off an Upset?
The upcoming series promises a fresh batch of celebrities ready to hit the dance floor. This year’s lineup includes Chris McCausland, the show's first blind contestant, along with a diverse array of stars like Toyah Willcox, Nick Knowles, and Shayne Ward. Viewers will eagerly await to see which professional dancers will be paired with these new faces when the pairings are announced during the launch show.
Despite the excitement, the road to this season has been rocky. Recent months have seen a flurry of allegations and complaints from former contestants regarding their treatment on the show. Among the most notable was the controversy surrounding Giovanni Pernice, who has been accused of inappropriate behavior by his former dance partner Amanda Abbington. Pernice has denied these allegations, but his absence from this season has been confirmed. Similarly, Graziano Di Prima has been dropped from the show following an incident where he admitted to kicking his partner Zara McDermott during rehearsals.
In response to these controversies, the BBC has implemented new welfare measures to ensure the well-being of everyone involved in the production. These include the introduction of chaperones in rehearsal rooms and the appointment of dedicated welfare producers to oversee the environment on set. The BBC has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing any concerns seriously and taking appropriate actions to prevent inappropriate behavior.
As the show kicks off, it's clear that Strictly's long-standing appeal lies in its ability to adapt and entertain. The familiarity of the show’s format, coupled with the anticipation of new performances and weekly theme nights, continues to captivate audiences. The upcoming season will include all the fan-favorite theme weeks such as Halloween, Musicals, and the highly anticipated Blackpool week.
Culture journalist Olivia-Anne Cleary highlights the integral role that these autumn episodes play in building the excitement leading up to Christmas. "It's those kind of autumn moments that make it whole," she notes, emphasizing how the show's seasonal charm contributes to its enduring success.
Despite the shadows cast by recent controversies, the return of Strictly Come Dancing is a testament to the resilience and enduring appeal of the show. As it embarks on its 20th season, it aims to celebrate its legacy while addressing past issues and moving forward with renewed energy and commitment to its audience. The launch show airs at 19:20 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, marking the start of what promises to be another thrilling season of dance and drama.
Read More:
0 Comments