A shadow has fallen over the glittering world of *Strictly Come Dancing*. A performer, known to millions through the popular show, is now facing a grave accusation: rape. The arrest, made last month, stems from an incident following a BBC event, sending shockwaves through the organization and raising serious questions about the program’s future.
The woman involved was not a participant in the show itself, but her connection to the performer through the program brought the scandal directly to *Strictly’s* door. Hertfordshire Police have confirmed the arrest and stated that a thorough investigation is underway, leaving many wondering about the implications for all involved.
Despite the turmoil, sources suggest the show’s cancellation is unlikely. In fact, it’s already been commissioned for 2026, with executives fearing a potential exodus of viewers if the beloved program were to disappear from screens. The concern centers around the TV license fee, a vital source of funding for the BBC.
This latest crisis comes on the heels of another arrest just three months prior, involving a different male star accused of rape and possessing non-consensual intimate images. The repeated allegations have deeply divided BBC leadership, sparking debate over whether to continue as planned or to temporarily halt production.
The possibility of a pause in 2026 is being considered, not just to address the immediate crisis, but to fundamentally overhaul safeguarding measures and potentially revamp the show’s format. Some within the BBC believe a complete reset is necessary to restore public trust.
Adding to the upheaval, the unexpected departure of longtime hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman has fueled speculation that this could be the opportune moment for a hiatus. Insiders suggest producers might leverage the new hosts as a justification for a much-needed period of reflection and reform.
The current scandals are not isolated incidents. Last year, Amanda Abbington publicly accused her professional partner, Giovanni Pernice, of abusive behavior during their time on the show. An investigation substantiated her claims of verbal bullying and harassment, ultimately leading to Pernice’s exit.
Further scrutiny revealed another incident involving Graziano Di Prima, who was found to have kicked Zara McDermott during rehearsals, also resulting in his departure. These revelations prompted the introduction of chaperones during training sessions, a direct response to growing concerns about duty of care.
Even more recently, Wynne Evans faced repercussions for a lewd remark directed at *It Takes Two* host Jannette Manrara, leading to his dismissal from his radio position at the BBC. Simultaneously, an internal inquiry was launched into allegations of drug use by two stars during their participation in the program, with concerns also raised about alcohol consumption.
The announcement of Daly and Winkleman’s departure mid-season stunned both fans and staff, adding another layer of complexity to an already fraught situation. The BBC has declined to comment on the ongoing police investigation, citing the sensitivity of the matter.
