The hit BBC programme Strictly Come Dancing faces another serious crisis as one of its stars has been arrested on suspicion of rape, according to reports emerging today.
Arrest Details and Police Investigation
Hertfordshire Police confirmed that a man was detained in London on 13 October concerning an alleged incident that occurred in 2024. The suspect, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was later released on bail while investigations continue.
According to sources, the woman who made the complaint was not involved with Strictly Come Dancing as either a contestant or professional dancer. A BBC spokesperson stated that commenting on an ongoing police investigation would be inappropriate.
Mounting Problems for BBC's Flagship Show
This arrest marks the second such incident involving a Strictly male star in just three months. Another performer, also in his 30s and unnamed, was previously arrested on suspicion of rape and faces additional allegations of non-consensual intimate image abuse.
The news comes during what insiders describe as an "absolute nightmare" period for the BBC. A corporation source revealed that bosses had worked hard to stabilise the show and minimise scandals before this latest development emerged.
The source added: "The BBC is taking this very seriously and will absolutely offer support to all concerned."
Broader Context of Strictly Controversies
Strictly Come Dancing has encountered multiple difficulties in recent months. Presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman recently announced they will step down after the current series, passing what they called "the very sparkly baton" to new hosts.
Other incidents include:
- An external law firm investigating claims that two programme stars had taken cocaine
- The BBC apologising to Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington after she accused professional dancer Giovanni Pernice of bullying and harassment
- Welsh opera singer Wynne Evans apologising for making an "inappropriate and unacceptable" remark during the show's live tour launch
Despite these challenges, Strictly Come Dancing remains one of the BBC's most popular entertainment programmes, though these successive controversies threaten to overshadow its glittering reputation.
