Can Strictly Recover from Its Scandal and Bounce Back?

When Tess Daly high-kicked off the first episode of Strictly Come Dancing in 2004, warning viewers about the “blood, sweat and tears” behind the scenes, she couldn’t have foreseen how prophetic her words would become. The BBC series, now celebrating its 20th anniversary, finds itself in a storm of controversy. Two of its dancers, Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima, are missing from the next lineup following allegations of abusive behavior, which they deny. The BBC is now investigating the conduct and culture of the show.

The investigation was triggered when Amanda Abbington, Pernice’s dance partner last year, quit after five weeks, alleging that she had been subjected to “inappropriate, mean, nasty bullying.” Pernice has denied any abusive or threatening behavior and left Strictly, believing he will be cleared by the BBC’s ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, police are investigating death threats made to Abbington. She disclosed to Channel 4 News that she also received rape threats targeting not only herself but her children as well.

Abbington’s complaints spurred another star, Love Island’s Zara McDermott, to come forward with allegations against her partner, Di Prima. Video footage allegedly shows Di Prima kicking and spitting at her during training sessions. While Di Prima admitted to kicking McDermott, he denies the spitting accusation. McDermott didn’t complain initially due to fear of public backlash.

This controversy is a stark departure from Strictly’s usual cheerful and family-friendly image. Usually, the summer is filled with tabloid speculations about the upcoming lineup, but this year has seen frequent front-page discussions questioning the show’s future. One insider noted that the fates of Pernice and Di Prima have put other dancers on edge. The production team is determined to prevent more controversies. “There will not be any complaints this series,” said another insider. “And you’re not going to get any over-zealous dancers.”

To ensure smoother operations, the BBC has introduced several measures. These include a celebrity welfare producer for the 15 contestants, a professional dancer welfare producer for the dancers, and a production team member to be present during all training room rehearsals. Additional crew training is also underway. Kate Phillips, BBC’s director of unscripted, stated, “If issues are raised with us or if we’re made aware of inappropriate behavior, we will always take that seriously and act.”

Last December, the BBC had updated its contributor wellbeing guidance, highlighting the psychological support required before, during, and after a show. Despite these guidelines, the high-intensity, sometimes brutal training regimen has become a point of contention. The show’s inclusive nature is evident, featuring same-sex couples and even a deaf winner, Rose Ayling-Ellis, in 2021. This season also features its first blind contestant, comedian Chris McCausland.

However, the rigorous training demands more than just physical endurance. The West End star Layton Williams, who played Billy Elliot, was included as a contestant last season, setting an exceptionally high bar and causing some discomfort among those involved in the show. Another incident involved Angela Rippon injuring herself just before going live, yet performing brilliantly, showcasing the high stakes and intense pressure the contestants face.

Twenty years ago, the atmosphere was significantly different. The show grew out of the old Come Dancing, incorporating modern twists like celebrity participation and audience voting. Journalist Jane Lush recalled, “We were struggling for ideas, and then Fenia suggested, ‘Why don’t we do Celebrity Come Dancing?’ and I thought, ‘That’s so simple: genius.'” They eventually named it Strictly Come Dancing, inspired by Baz Luhrmann’s film Strictly Ballroom.

With its blend of celebrity antics and ballroom glamour, Strictly never aimed to match the high standards of its professional predecessor. Bruce Forsyth, who was pitched the idea in an Italian restaurant, found the concept amusing yet compelling. It was always intended to be more of an entertainment show than a serious dance competition.

Despite the controversies, the appeal of Strictly remains robust. The show has been sold to over 60 markets worldwide under the name Dancing with the Stars, making significant revenue for BBC Studios from merchandise and tours as well. According to Tom Harrington from Enders Analysis, the current issues are unlikely to affect its global appeal.

The format has weathered storms before, including the behavior of Seann Walsh in 2018, John Sergeant’s unexpected exit in 2008, and a racist comment by Anton du Beke in 2009. Despite these hiccups, Strictly has continued to thrive. Yet, given the current climate scrutinizing TV industry practices, all eyes will be on whether the glitter ball has lost its shine.

The BBC has not indicated whether the current row will be mentioned on the main show. Welfare might be discussed on the spin-off It Takes Two. Despite the ongoing investigation, the demand for studio audience tickets remains high, showing that fans are still eager to engage with the show.

The investigation report might be published sooner to clear the air, although some think the BBC will delay it until viewers have bonded with the new contestants. The BBC, as a public service broadcaster, is expected to maintain high standards, causing many to question the processes that were followed.

Strictly contestants face rigorous physical and mental challenges. The show’s guidelines emphasize psychological support due to the pressure exerted on contestants. Exit chats have always been part of the show to gather feedback, but sources indicate that more psychological testing might be needed for future seasons.

The professional dancers also face significant pressures and may not always have the training needed to manage them. With the increasing influence of social media, the environment has become more intense and unforgiving.

Ultimately, Strictly Come Dancing balances its dance competition roots with elements of reality TV drama, creating an engaging but challenging environment for its participants. The show will continue to evolve, aiming to maintain its beloved status and iconic catchphrase: “Keep dancing.”

Source: The Guardian