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Fresh scandal hits Strictly as BBC call in cops after external probe into show weeks before new series starts
THE BBC has brought police into the Strictly probe — engulfing the show in its biggest crisis.
Beeb bosses alerted the Met after lawyers began an inquiry into the scandal-hit series.
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Police being brought in to investigate allegations surrounding Strictly Come Dancing is not a good look for the scandal-hit BBC, sources said last night.
The corporation had already launched an inquiry into its flagship Saturday night family show amid claims two of its stars had used cocaine.
It is understood that detectives from the Met Police are examining other allegations relating to the telly ballroom hit, which has been rocked by a string of controversies.
Our latest shock revelation comes as the BBC prepares to launch Strictly's 23rd series next month - after officially announcing the line-up of celebrities including reality TV star Dani Dyer.
A source told The Sun on Sunday: 'It's a significant new development in the BBC's recent string of crises that they have now got the police involved in investigating allegations surrounding Strictly.
"This is a very dramatic turn of events.
'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.'
Strictly has been the subject of inquiries into bullying and inappropriate behaviour over the past 14 months.
But this is believed to be the first time the BBC has been in contact with the police over allegations linked to the show.
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It is understood the matter was referred by the BBC after it launched an inquiry, conducted by external lawyers Pinsent Masons, into alleged drug use on the show.
The Sun on Sunday reported two weeks ago how it was 'well known' that two Strictly stars took cocaine.
It was claimed one accused another of being 'off their face' - saying: 'Have you seen their pupils?'
It's hugely controversial that you've now got Scotland Yard detectives probing Strictly
Source
Lawyers were brought in after ex-Strictly star and opera singer Wynne Evans made allegations in a legal submission to the BBC in March.
In relation to the drugs allegations, the BBC said a fortnight ago: 'We have clear protocols and policies in place for dealing with any serious complaint raised with us.
'We would always encourage people to speak to us if they have concerns.
'It would not be appropriate for us to comment further.'
Plunged into crisis
The BBC previously investigated bullying allegations by actress Amanda Abbington against pro Giovanni Pernice. Graziano Di Prima was fired over claims he kicked celeb partner Zara McDermott.
Earlier this year Evans was dumped by the BBC after he was filmed making a 'spit-roast' comment to EastEnder Jamie Borthwick at the Strictly tour photocall.
In June Borthwick was suspended after The Sun on Sunday revealed he made an offensive slur against disabled people and Blackpool.
It was also claimed he filmed himself messing around with a sex toy in a Strictly tour dressing room.
The BBC has also been plunged into a crisis over its cookery show MasterChef, with co-hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode fired.
Meanwhile, corporation chiefs have also been probing claims of bullying on BBC Breakfast, including allegations about host Naga Munchetty's behaviour.
Last night Scotland Yard said: 'On Monday 4 August, the Metropolitan Police received a third-party allegation.
"The police investigation is in its early stages. No arrests have been made at this time.'
