BBC Faces Crisis as Strictly Star Arrested in Rape Investigation
The BBC is reportedly considering putting Strictly Come Dancing on temporary hiatus following the arrest of one of its stars on suspicion of rape. The male performer, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was arrested last month after allegedly assaulting a woman following a BBC event.
According to sources, the victim was not connected to the show as a contestant or professional dancer, but the two individuals met due to the man's involvement in the popular dancing programme. Hertfordshire Police confirmed they had arrested a man and that their investigation remains ongoing.
Second Serious Allegation in Three Months
This marks the second time in just three months that a Strictly Come Dancing star has faced serious sexual assault allegations. In August, another unnamed male performer was arrested on suspicion of rape and for possessing non-consensual intimate image abuse.
The latest incident has reportedly created deep divisions among senior BBC executives. Some are adamant the show must continue as normal, while others believe pausing the programme in 2026 would allow time to strengthen safeguarding measures and potentially revamp the format.
An insider revealed to The Sun that the shock departure of longtime hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman could provide producers with a natural opportunity to put the show on temporary hold. The source stated: 'It's frankly beyond embarrassing. The feeling among many is, we limp through the rest of the series, try and give Tess and Claudia a proper send off then use the new hosts as a credible reason to reset.'
History of Controversies Plagues Popular Show
This isn't the first time Strictly Come Dancing has faced serious allegations about its duty of care. In 2023, actress Amanda Abbington complained about professional dancer Giovanni Pernice being 'abusive' during their partnership. An investigation later upheld several of her complaints about verbal bullying and harassment, leading to the Italian dancer's departure from the show.
During the same investigation, it was discovered that Graziano Di Prima had kicked celebrity partner Zara McDermott during rehearsals, resulting in his exit from the programme. These incidents prompted the introduction of chaperones to monitor training sessions as part of enhanced safeguarding measures.
More recently, in the lead-up to the Strictly tour, Wynne Evans was forced to apologise for making a lewd remark about It Takes Two host Jannette Manrara during a photo call event. The Welsh opera singer subsequently lost his radio commitments with the BBC.
Earlier this year, the corporation launched an inquiry into claims that two of its stars had used drugs during their time on the programme, with one also suspected of drinking alcohol during production.
When contacted by Metro for comment, a BBC spokesperson stated: 'It would not be appropriate to comment on an ongoing police investigation.' Strictly Come Dancing continues to air on BBC One while senior management deliberates the programme's future direction amid growing concerns about its safeguarding protocols and public image.
