Strictly Come Dancing Faces Police Investigation Amid New Allegations
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London, United Kingdom – August 17, 2025 – The BBC has initiated contact with the Metropolitan Police regarding fresh allegations surrounding its flagship program, Strictly Come Dancing. The inquiry follows reports of potential drug use involving members of the show’s cast, marking the latest in a series of controversies to impact the popular competition.
Initial Reports and BBC Response
According to reports from The Sun on Sunday, the BBC alerted authorities to new claims concerning the show, though specific details remain undisclosed. A BBC spokesperson stated on Saturday that the corporation maintains a policy of not commenting on ongoing police investigations. this action follows earlier reports this month alleging discussions of drug use among Strictly participants, prompting the appointment of the law firm Pinsent Masons to conduct an internal review.
Did You Know? Strictly Come Dancing consistently ranks among the most-watched television programs in the United Kingdom, drawing an average of over seven million viewers per episode.
Past Scrutiny and Welfare Measures
This is not the first time the program has faced scrutiny. In 2024, the BBC conducted a review into allegations of bullying and harassment leveled against former professional dancer giovanni Pernice by his previous dance partner, Amanda Abbington. The corporation upheld some, but not all, of the complaints, afterward implementing enhanced welfare measures.
These measures included the mandatory presence of a chaperone during all training room rehearsals, a direct response to concerns raised during the review process. The BBC has demonstrated a commitment to addressing concerns regarding contestant well-being, as highlighted by the implementation of these new protocols.
Separate Incident Involving James Borthwick
in a separate incident,actor James Borthwick was suspended by the BBC after a video surfaced showing him using a derogatory slur on the set of Strictly Come Dancing. This incident underscores the BBC’s zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate behavior and its commitment to maintaining a respectful habitat.
Legal Submission and Allegations
The current allegations of cocaine use reportedly originated in a legal submission made in March by the law firm Russells, representing former contestant Wynne Evans.Evans had previously apologized for using “inappropriate language” during the launch of the Strictly tour, leading to his removal from the program. The BBC routinely enlists external legal counsel to assist in conducting internal investigations.
Pro Tip: The BBC’s internal guidelines emphasize the importance of impartiality and maintaining public trust, notably in the context of high-profile programs like Strictly Come Dancing. [[1]]
The BBC spokesperson reiterated the corporation’s commitment to addressing serious complaints, stating, “We have clear protocols and policies in place for dealing with any serious complaint raised with us.We would always encourage people to speak to us if they have concerns. It would not be appropriate for us to comment further.”
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| March 2025 | Legal submission made by Russells on behalf of Wynne Evans. |
| Earlier August 2025 | Reports of drug use allegations surface in The Sun. |
| August 17, 2025 | BBC confirms contact with Metropolitan Police. |
| 2024 | Review conducted regarding allegations against giovanni Pernice. |
The Metropolitan Police has been contacted for comment but has not yet issued a statement. What impact will these allegations have on the show’s upcoming season? And how will the BBC navigate this latest crisis of confidence?
Strictly Come Dancing has been a cornerstone of British television since its debut in 2004.The show’s enduring popularity stems from its blend of celebrity participation,professional choreography,and the inherent drama of live competition. Though, the recent controversies highlight the challenges faced by large-scale productions in maintaining a safe and ethical environment for all involved. The show’s ability to address these issues transparently will be crucial in preserving its reputation and public trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the current allegations against ‘Strictly Come Dancing’? The allegations involve potential cocaine use by members of the show’s cast.
- Has the BBC commented on the police investigation? The BBC has confirmed contact with the Metropolitan Police but has not provided further details.
- What steps did the BBC take after the 2024 allegations? The BBC conducted a review and implemented new welfare measures, including mandatory chaperones during rehearsals.
- Who is Wynne Evans? Wynne Evans is a former contestant who made a legal submission related to the allegations.
- What is the BBC’s policy on serious complaints? The BBC has clear protocols for addressing serious complaints and encourages individuals to come forward with concerns.
We’ll continue to update this story as it develops. Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe for the latest news and updates.
