A former senior BBC executive has publicly called for Strictly Come Dancing to take a year off in 2026 in a bid to protect the beleaguered show's reputation.
A Call for a 'Fallow Year'
Sam Hodges, who served as the BBC's Head of Communications between 2011 and 2015, took to social media to share his stark recommendation. Hodges was part of the team that launched the ballroom show over two decades ago. He now believes the programme should emulate the Glastonbury Festival by instituting a 'fallow year' to reset and rebuild public affection.
Writing on LinkedIn, Hodges stated: 'For the first time though, I think it’s time to take a leaf out of Glastonbury’s book and consider a fallow year for 2026.' He argued that the series' reputation would benefit more from making audiences appreciate what they are missing, rather than hastily recruiting new talent in an attempt to fix its problems.
Controversies and High-Profile Exits
Hodges' intervention comes after a turbulent period for the BBC's flagship entertainment show. The programme has been rocked by multiple allegations, including claims of bullying and drug use. It was also linked to two arrests on suspicion of rape, one of which occurred in October 2025 and involved a man connected to the show.
This backdrop was compounded by the shock announcement in late 2025 that the show's iconic presenting duo, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, would be stepping down after 21 years. Their departure has sparked intense speculation about potential replacements, with names like Zoe Ball, Alison Hammond, and Rylan Clark being floated.
Mixed Reactions and Firm Commitments
Not all industry experts agree with Hodges' proposed hiatus. Another communications professional commented on his post, expressing understanding but disagreement, noting that for many viewers, Strictly remains 'a lovely thing to watch' and a source of warm, familiar comfort.
Furthermore, a source close to production insisted to the Daily Mail that the show will definitely return in 2026, stating it has already been commissioned. The source warned that axing the popular series could lead to a catastrophic drop in TV licence fee payments from disgruntled viewers.
Amid the uncertainty, producers are reportedly considering new talent, including drag performer La Voix, for a role on the main show or its companion programme, It Takes Two.
Hodges concluded his post with a final plea: 'To save the show’s reputation, 2026 might be the year for the BBC and Strictly to do the same.' The BBC now faces a significant decision on whether to power through the storm or heed the advice to pause and refresh its most glittering star.
