BBC calls in police over fresh Strictly Come Dancing allegations weeks before new series
The BBC have brought in Metropolitan Police detectives to investigate allegations surrounding Strictly Come Dancing just weeks before the start of the new series.
The broadcaster had already begun an enquiry into the much-loved programme after claims emerged alleging that two of its stars had been using cocaine.
Allegations of cocaine use was reportedly brought forward in a legal submission by lawyers on behalf of Wynne Evans, who was banished by the BBC for using “inappropriate language” during the Strictly tour’s launch.
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The BBC has now alerted the Met Police to fresh allegations about the scandal-hit show, the Sun revealed.
However, the details of the new claims have not yet been specified.
“It’s a significant new development in the BBC’s string of recent crises that they have now got the police involved in investigating allegations surrounding Strictly,” a source told The Sun on Sunday.
“Despite all the show and its team have been through over recent months, it’s hugely controversial that you’ve now got Scotland Yard detectives probing Strictly.
“This is their biggest prime-time family entertainment show, so it’s not a good look for the BBC.”
A spokesman for the BBC said the broadcaster does not comment on active police investigations.
It was reported earlier this month that the two Strictly stars’ alleged drug use was rumoured to have been openly discussed on the programme and the BBC had appointed an external law firm to spearhead the investigation.
When the claims surround drug use emerged, a BBC spokesman said: “We have clear protocols and policies in place for dealing with any serious complaint raised with us.
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“We would always encourage people to speak to us if they have concerns.
“It would not be appropriate for us to comment further.”
Last year, a review into the popular series was launched after the BBC investigated claims of bullying and harassment made by former contestant Amanda Abbington against her former dance partner, Giovanni Pernice.
After the BBC upheld some of the claims made by Ms Abbington, a wave of new measures were put in place to boost the welfare of contestants.
This included introducing chaperones into training room rehearsals to watch over contestants “at all times”.
The first live show for the programme’s 23rd season is set to take place on September 20.
Confirmed contestants in this year’s line-up include TV personality Dani Dyer, Apprentice star Thomas Skinner, and Game of Thrones icon Kristian Nairn.
GB News has approached the Metropolitan Police for comment.