The BBC issued an apology on Tuesday to contestants who experienced negative incidents on “Strictly Come Dancing” following allegations about the training methods of some professional dancers. The show, a cornerstone of BBC’s entertainment lineup for 20 years and globally known as “Dancing with the Stars,” has recently faced criticism that tarnishes its image as a joyful and glamorous production featuring celebrities paired with professional dancers to learn new routines weekly.
Director General Tim Davie expressed regret, saying, “I’m very sorry that anyone has had an experience on Strictly that hasn’t been wholly positive. We reflect on this seriously and I apologize for it.” Davie acknowledged specific issues related to training sessions that required attention and assured that the broadcaster had introduced new measures to address these concerns.
Last week, the BBC announced that a member of the production staff would be present at every training session as a chaperone, a response to recent allegations and the departure of professional dancers Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima. Pernice has denied any accusations of abusive or threatening behavior, while Di Prima’s spokesperson confirmed that the dancer had apologized after kicking his partner Zara McDermott, a presenter and media personality, last year.
Davie expressed confidence that “Strictly Come Dancing” would return in the autumn, emphasizing the show’s primary focus on fun and entertainment. “This show is about fun and entertainment primarily,” he said. “But you’ve got competitive individuals, often sports stars and professional dancers, who want to win.” He underscored the BBC’s responsibility to manage this competitiveness effectively.
“And if people go over the line, we have the systems and the processes to deal with that,” Davie stated, highlighting the importance of maintaining a positive environment for all participants.
The measures being implemented aim to preserve the integrity and enjoyment of “Strictly Come Dancing,” ensuring that the experiences of all contestants align with the show’s celebratory and supportive spirit. The BBC’s proactive steps to address these issues reflect a commitment to upholding the high standards of one of its flagship programs and reinforcing its reputation as a beloved source of entertainment.
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