Latest news with #Elstree
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Strictly rocked by fresh scandal amid 'drug probe' after staffer claims they were offered cocaine by show star during wild alcohol fuelled afterparty
Strictly Come Dancing has been rocked by further scandal after a staffer claimed they were offered cocaine by one of the show's stars. This comes amid the revelation that the broadcaster had hired a law firm to probe allegations of drug taking by two individuals. In the latest turn of events a member of the crew, who reportedly worked on show for a decade until 2023, has broken their silence on Strictly's wild behind the scenes parties which they claimed were fulled by drink and drugs. He told The Sun: 'The main partying is on site at Elstree after filming of the live show has finished. Boozing and drug taking goes on until 3am, sometimes 4am. The smoking area outside is a hive of activity. Cocaine gets taken there'. He went on to claim that drug use was so common on the show, that when he found a suspicious bag of white powder, a unfazed senior producer told him to 'leave it on my desk' as the incident failed to raise even an eyebrow. The staff member also said the show's annual special filmed at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom was an especially 'big party night' full of debauchery. 'I was offered cocaine by a star at an after show party. Lots of people would go back to the hotel. It was a closed-off party, just for the cast and crew. It went on until 5am, even to 6am, it was insane. People were wired and you could see it in their eyes'. A BBC spokesperson told Daily Mail: '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.' Meanwhile one of the stars involved in the drugs probe was also suspected of drinking while working on the show after crew smelt alcohol on their breath. The Sun alleged that it was widely known that the pair, who have not been named, took the Class A substance, and that one of these Strictly performers were known for being a drinker. The publication have now reported that junior members of the team were asked to keep an eye on them during last year's show and to look for signs that they may have been boozing during work hours. A TV insider said: 'The person in question is renowned for loving to party, and that is a major problem when it impacts on their ability to do the job they need to do on Strictly in a safe and professional manner. 'It's not just about something being illegal or legal, it's about the BBC 's workplace policies and how the behaviour of certain individuals can impact on their work colleagues. 'On a very physical show like Strictly, with lots of sets and moving parts, the idea of someone being intoxicated in any way is wholly unacceptable.' A BBC spokesperson told Daily Mail: We do not recognise these claims and any suggestion that anyone has been asked to monitor an individual is completely untrue. BBC bosses are reportedly set to offer professional support to two stars of hit dancing show Strictly, amid allegations they took cocaine on the programme. It was revealed the broadcaster has hired a law firm to probe allegations of drug taking by two individuals, whose drug use is said to be 'well-known' on the show. The claims were reportedly made in a legal submission to the BBC by law firm Russells back in March, on behalf of former contestant Wynne Evans. A source told the newspaper: 'The BBC is taking the allegations really seriously. 'Bosses are aware of the two stars in question and have a duty of care to make sure they're okay. 'As per BBC policy, the option of specialised professional support is on the table and will be offered.' They added: 'While drug testing won't happen on the main show, bosses are considering bringing in random checks for the tour next year. 'The BBC needs to be sure nothing illegal is going on. It all depends on what the investigation finds.' The shock allegations come just amid a long period of controversy for the BBC and Strictly over the past year or so. He used a vile sexual innuendo and was also caught up in a 'wandering hand' incident with dance partner Katya Jones [pictured with Wynne], who seemed to remove his arm from her lower waist on the show In July last year, more than six months after quitting the show citing 'personal reasons', actress Amanda Abbington accused pro dancer Giovanni Pernice of 'unnecessary, cruel and mean behaviour' during their time dancing together on Strictly. Giovanni rejected the claims immediately, and a BBC investigation ruled in September that her claims of physical aggression and threatening behaviour were not upheld. When BBC bosses published their report into Giovanni's behaviour, it cleared him of the most serious allegations of physical aggression, but upheld verbal bullying and harassment. Complaints of verbal bullying and harassment meant the BBC issued an apology to Amanda, but Giovanni said he was 'pleased the report has not found any evidence of threatening or abusive behaviour '. Elsewhere, the show was plunged into crisis after Welsh opera singer Wynne Evans made a controversial joke during his time preparing for the Strictly tour in January. He used a vile sexual innuendo and was also caught up in a 'wandering hand' incident with dance partner Katya Jones , who seemed to remove his arm from her lower waist on the show. While his co-star John Torode [left] was also sacked after two decades over allegations that he used the N-word, which he claims to have 'absolutely no recollection' of After the BBC launched an investigation into his conduct, bosses decided not to renew his radio contract for his show. The TV star confirmed in May that they will not be renewing his one-year rolling contract following a four-month investigation after the inappropriate comments made during his time on Strictly. Elsewhere, in further scandals for the BBC, Gregg Wallace was recently dismissed from MasterChef after more than 40 complaints against him were upheld following a BBC investigation. While his co-star John Torode was also sacked after two decades over allegations that he used the N-word, which he claims to have 'absolutely no recollection' of. In separate further controversy, it's recently been reported that Naga Munchetty could face an investigation from BBC bosses after she was accused of bullying a junior colleague. The BBC Breakfast host, 50, has been placed 'under review' while bosses consider escalating complaints to a formal investigation, The Sun reports. A source said higher-ups had heard from several colleagues and logged concerns over her 'hard' and 'bullying' behaviour on the breakfast show, as well as her Radio 5 Live show.
The Sun
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Fresh Strictly drug allegations as 10-year show veteran claims he was offered cocaine by one of it stars at wild party
STRICTLY has been hit by fresh drug allegations from a former veteran worker on the show — including claims he was offered cocaine by one of its stars. The whistleblower, who worked on the family hit for ten years until 2023, said he saw 'partying' at the Elstree studios after live filming. 3 He alleged stars and crew were 'drinking and taking drugs'. He claimed on two separate occasions bags of white power, suspected to be cocaine, were found in a smoking area and also in the men's toilets. And the ex-production crew member alleges one of the Strictly stars offered him cocaine at a Blackpool show after-party. We have passed on his allegations to the BBC. It comes after The Sun on Sunday revealed last week The Sun on Sunday revealed last week the BBC had launched an inquiry into allegations of cocaine abuse on Strictly by two stars. BBC bosses have hired external lawyers Pinsent Masons to speak to former contestants, professional dancers and crew. We told how one star accused another of being 'off their face' on drugs. And a celebrity had told how it was 'well known on the show that two stars took cocaine . . . it was talked about widely among the cast'. Now, in the latest claims, the long-serving former production crew member, told The Sun on Sunday: 'Strictly is full of partying and drug -taking. BBC launches inquiry into damning allegations of drug consumption on flagship show Strictly Come Dancing 'The main partying is on site at Elstree after filming of the live show has finished. Boozing and drug taking goes on until 3am, sometimes 4am. 'The smoking area outside is a hive of activity. Cocaine gets taken there. 'I remember a bag of cocaine was found in the outside smoking area at Elstree and handed in to a senior producer. That person said, 'Leave it on my desk', no eyebrows were raised. 'On another occasion, a small bag of cocaine was found in the male toilets at Elstree. It was widely discussed by people working on the show. 'But in some ways it was seen as quite normal, to find that sort of thing. "People think they can get away with it.' The whistleblower came forward after reading our story last Sunday and learning of the BBC-led inquiry. He claimed the annual show filmed at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom was 'a particularly big celebration' for the cast and crew. He said: 'Blackpool was always a big party night. I was offered cocaine by a star at an after-show party. Lots of people would go back to the hotel. 'It was a closed-off party, just for the cast and crew. It went on until 5am, even to 6am, it was insane. People were wired and you could see it in their eyes. 'There was lots of champagne and Prosecco too, loads of bottles of it.' He added that he thought it was 'well known' on the programme that one of the stars took cocaine, and that he felt they needed help. He said: 'They had a real problem with cocaine, lots of people spoke about it.' Referring to these latest allegations, a BBC spokesman said: '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.' 3 Last night, a BBC source said they would look into the ex-worker's allegations and asked us to put him in touch with them — after the former worker said he was considering talking to the investigation team. It came as the BBC is prepared to launch its 23rd series of Strictly next month. The Corporation is hoping for a scandal-free show after previous ones were hit by numerous controversies. They included Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington accusing Giovanni Pernice of bullying her and Graziano Di Prima being sacked for kicking his celebrity partner Zara McDermott. Last weekend, The Sun on Sunday revealed drugs allegations were made in a legal submission to the BBC in March, by law firm Russells, on behalf of celebrity contestant Wynne Evans — who was axed from the Strictly live tour after he was recorded making an inappropriate sexual comment. It was understood others have also reported to the BBC allegations of drug taking on Strictly. A source said: 'It's been an extremely difficult time for everyone connected to Strictly but, to be fair, the BBC acted promptly on The Sun's drug allegations and brought in external lawyers to help with their investigation. 'They're clearly determined to clean up the show, which of course is a hugely popular family show, so it's no real surprise they are taking these allegations seriously and holding a proper inquiry. 'With the new Strictly series about to start, and the latest crop of celebrities being unveiled soon, the BBC will want it all to run smoothly.'
Glasgow Times
29-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Strictly Come Dancing celebrity 'confirmed' at BBC studio
Among them were Amy Dowden, reigning champion Dianne Buswell, Johannes Radebe and Kai Widdrington, to name a few. They were joined by the two new professionals, Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon. However, aside from the dancers who began training on Monday (July 28), there was also a celebrity who was spotted by fans making their way to Elstree Studios, rumored to be part of this year's line-up. From BBC a radio 2 Instagram 'Claws up if you remember this Scott Mills masterclass? 🦀😂 Hear #Strictly pros, Alexia Warr & Julian Caillon on Breakfast, catch up on BBC Sounds! ✨' — 🪩 All Things Strictly 🪩 (@StrictlySparks) July 28, 2025 Love Island star spotted at Elstree studios as Strictly rehearsals begin It comes as someone posted on the Strictly Come Dancing Reddit page: 'My daughter's a receptionist at Elstree and was super excited that she saw Danni Dyer at the studio yesterday. Something to do with strictly??' This person responded: 'She is rumoured actually! I guess she will be on it, she'll be good. 'She was also rumoured to take part in celeb SAS tho (edit: the one that films for next year) guess she's deciding which to do.' Another commented: 'i've heard her name floating around so thats brill news x' All the winners over the years One chimed in: 'Last year the celebs did their costume fittings before they were announced, so it's possible she could be at elstree for that.' Meanwhile, this viewer shared: 'So exciting it's that time of the year again!!!!' Last month, the Love Island star was just one name thrown into the rumour mill as a source previously told The Sun: 'Bosses are thrilled she's agreed to take part and are ironing out her fee. "She's bubbly, down-to-earth and straight-talking and producers reckon she'll make an ideal contestant - not to mention the bonus of having Jarrod and dad Danny in the audience supporting her." Recommended reading: Elsewhere, the BBC recently confirmed Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and head judge Shirley Ballas will all return to the judging panel, with recent MBE recipients Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman back on hosting duties. Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer this autumn. Newsquest has approached Strictly for comment.
The Herald Scotland
29-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Strictly Come Dancing celebrity 'confirmed' at BBC studio
They were joined by the two new professionals, Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon. However, aside from the dancers who began training on Monday (July 28), there was also a celebrity who was spotted by fans making their way to Elstree Studios, rumored to be part of this year's line-up. From BBC a radio 2 Instagram 'Claws up if you remember this Scott Mills masterclass? 🦀😂 Hear #Strictly pros, Alexia Warr & Julian Caillon on Breakfast, catch up on BBC Sounds! ✨' — 🪩 All Things Strictly 🪩 (@StrictlySparks) July 28, 2025 Love Island star spotted at Elstree studios as Strictly rehearsals begin It comes as someone posted on the Strictly Come Dancing Reddit page: 'My daughter's a receptionist at Elstree and was super excited that she saw Danni Dyer at the studio yesterday. Something to do with strictly??' This person responded: 'She is rumoured actually! I guess she will be on it, she'll be good. 'She was also rumoured to take part in celeb SAS tho (edit: the one that films for next year) guess she's deciding which to do.' Another commented: 'i've heard her name floating around so thats brill news x' All the winners over the years One chimed in: 'Last year the celebs did their costume fittings before they were announced, so it's possible she could be at elstree for that.' Meanwhile, this viewer shared: 'So exciting it's that time of the year again!!!!' Last month, the Love Island star was just one name thrown into the rumour mill as a source previously told The Sun: 'Bosses are thrilled she's agreed to take part and are ironing out her fee. "She's bubbly, down-to-earth and straight-talking and producers reckon she'll make an ideal contestant - not to mention the bonus of having Jarrod and dad Danny in the audience supporting her." Recommended reading: Elsewhere, the BBC recently confirmed Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and head judge Shirley Ballas will all return to the judging panel, with recent MBE recipients Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman back on hosting duties. Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer this autumn. Newsquest has approached Strictly for comment.
Daily Mail
28-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Strictly Come Dancing star 'confirmed' as eagle-eyed fans spot contestant at BBC studio
A Strictly Come Dancing star has been 'confirmed' for the upcoming series after being spotted at the studio by eagle-eyed fans. The reality TV show, which is filmed at the BBC's Elstree base, is set to return to screens this Autumn. And Dani Dyer, 28, was reportedly seen at the studio this week after it was rumoured that she could be set to join the line-up. Sharing a post to Reddit, someone wrote: 'My daughter's a receptionist at Elstree and was super excited that she saw Dani Dyer at the studio yesterday. Something to do with Strictly??' Delighted fans commented: 'I've heard her name floating around so thats brill news x' Another added: 'She is rumoured actually! I guess she will be on it, she'll be good.' Last month it was reported that Dani could be moving on to one of her biggest career moves yet, by signing up to Strictly Come Dancing. The star is reported to be taking part in the next series, with The Sun claiming she has signed a pre-contract for the show and is currently in pay deal talks. A source told the publication: 'Bosses are thrilled she's agreed to take part and are ironing out her fee. 'She's bubbly, down-to-earth and straight-talking and producers reckon she'll make an ideal contestant — not to mention the bonus of having Jarrod and dad Danny in the audience supporting her.' MailOnline contacted the BBC and Dani's reps for comment. It comes after last year her acting father Danny, 47, said he gets asked to appear on Strictly Come Dancing every year, but he turns it down because it's simply 'not for him'. Speaking to The Sun, the TV star revealed the reason why he would never agree to be on the beloved BBC show. In true Danny fashion, he told the newspaper: 'I get offered to do Strictly every year, and it's not for me. I've got no desire to be mincing around in sequins.' Elsewhere, Strictly Come Dancing has unveiled two sexy new pros who are joining the lineup ahead of the much-anticipated new series. Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon will shimmy onto screens alongside a slew of much-loved pros later this year, with both already familiar to the show, having performed on the show's international versions, Dancing With The Stars. American-born Alexis Warr, 25, is best known for winning US dance series So You Think You Can Dance in 2022 and was crowned as 'America's Favourite Dancer', becoming the first female Ballroom and Latin dancer to claim the title. She has performed as a guest Professional Dancer and in the dance troupe on the US version of Strictly, Dancing With The Stars, and has been part of the series' accompanying US tour for the past three years. As well as appearing on America's Got Talent, World of Dance, and on national tours across the States, Alexis has also joined Dancing With The Stars judge Derek Hough for three tours, in addition to his Las Vegas residency. Prior to the announcement, Alexis hinted that she could be joining the Strictly pros in the new lineup, as she shared a video ahead of her flight to the UK over the weekend. The fiery redhead has been married to dentist Jake Burton for six years, and regularly shares sweet snaps with her spouse on Instagram. Speaking about joining the show, Alexis said: 'I've admired Strictly for years, so joining this incredible family is such an honour. 'I can't wait to step into the ballroom, pour my heart into every moment, and share my love of dance with the UK.' Australian-born Julian has been dancing since the age of 10, specialising in Ballroom and Latin American, and going onto represent Australia on the international stage. He appeared as a Professional Dancer on three seasons of Australia's Dancing With The Stars, has toured the globe with hit dance show Burn The Floor, and also competed on So You Think You Can Dance in Australia. Julian has a degree in Exercise Physiology from UNSW Sydney and, alongside his dance career, has worked as a Personal Trainer and Exercise Physiologist. He said: 'Joining the cast of Strictly really is a dream come true. I've watched it for years, especially cheering on all the amazing dancers I know and work with who've been part of it. I can't wait to get stuck in, have some fun, and be part of something special! ' Australian-born Julian has been dancing since the age of 10, and appeared as a Professional Dancer on three seasons of Australia's Dancing With The Stars Sarah James, Executive Producer, BBC Studios said: 'We've been big fans of Alexis and Julian for some time so it's with great excitement that we now welcome them both to the Strictly family. 'They're two incredible dancers with bright futures ahead of them, and we know viewers are going to love getting to know them both.' Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment at the BBC says: 'Alexis and Julian are the perfect additions to Strictly, and we can't wait for you to see them light up the ballroom this autumn. 'With our fantastic Professional Dancers plus everything else we love about Strictly, the new series promises to be bigger, better and even more glitter-packed than ever before.'
