Strictly facing ‘make or break moment’ as bosses need to support pros and celebs
EXCLUSIVE: Strictly has undoubtedly had a challenging year, but BBC bosses have confirmed that the new series will go ahead next month.
The future of Strictly Come Dancing can be saved if bosses ensure contestants and their professional partners are protected, according to an expert.
The long-running show has experienced a challenging few weeks, but BBC bosses have confirmed that the new series will go ahead next month.
Speaking exclusively to Express Online, Jack Proverbs, Senior PR Executive at PR by Whitney Williams, has waded in on the conversation surrounding what could be done to redeem the reputation of Strictly.
"Strictly Come Dancing has undoubtedly had a turbulent year, and the upcoming series will likely be the show’s make-or-break moment that will determine its future," he said.
"For the show to have a safe future, production needs to put extra measures in place to ensure contestants and their professional partners are always protected from inappropriate behaviour - on and off the stage.
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"Both celebrities and dancing professionals need to feel safe for the show to continue.
"They need to acknowledge unacceptable behaviour from the past and explain in detail to both cast and viewers of what they’ll do differently going forward."
The hit BBC series is currently engulfed in ongoing drama as a decision looms over Giovanni Pernice's alleged misconduct.
Amanda Abbington, 50, has levelled serious accusations of 'cruelty' and 'abuse' against the 33 year old Italian dancer, allegations he staunchly denies.
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On top of this, it was announced last month that Graziano Di Prima would not be returning to Strictly over his behaviour to celebrity partner, Zara McDermott.
The Italian dancer admitted that he "kicked" his celebrity partner Zara during training rehearsals last year.
Speaking to the BBC, Graziano's spokesman Mark Borkowski said: "There is never a time when kicking, or any sense of that is right. And he knows that. He knows he's made a mistake. He apologised at the time."
Graziano issued a statement on his shock departure, saying he "deeply regrets the events that led" to his exit. He claimed his "intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime".
Strictly Come Dancing returns next month on BBC One.
