Latest news with #TheStrictlyComeDancing
Daily Mirror
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Strictly Come Dancing stars start rehearsals as BBC launches cocaine investigation
Two stars from Strictly Come Dancing are alleged to have taken cocaine while appearing on the BBC One show in the latest scandal to hit the series The Strictly Come Dancing professionals put on a brave face today when they arrived for rehearsals as the BBC launches an investigation following the latest scandal to hit the show. In bombshell news, two stars from the family show are alleged to have taken cocaine while appearing on the primetime series, which is due to start again in September. In the latest shock to rock the long-running programme, drug use claims were submitted to the BBC in March by Russell's Solicitors on behalf of a celebrity contestant. It's believed that other individuals have also brought forward allegations of drug consumption on Strictly Come Dancing to the BBC. Earlier in the week, it was reported that one such allegation involved a Strictly star who allegedly commented on another individual's dilated pupils. It comes as the BBC is reportedly ready to offer the two stars a rehabilitation programme following revelations of cocaine use. Despite the drama, the professional dancers arrived for rehearsals today ahead of the new series. The talented stars, who were photographed for their first rehearsal for the show last week, smiled for the cameras as they made their way into the studio. Nadiya Bychkova, Johannes Radebe, Kai Widdrington, Gorka Marquez, Nikita Kuzmin, Dianne Buswell all looked ready to work up a sweat as they arrived wearing their comfy clothes - with Nadiya sporting an oversized Minnie Mouse jumper and Gorka plumping for some loose-fitting stripey slacks. Joining them for rehearsals were Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Aljaz Skorjanec, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Michelle Tskiakkas, Nancy Xu, and new recruits Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon. It comes after bosses reportedly launched an investigation into claims that two of its stars took cocaine. The BBC has hired law firm Pinsent Masons to probe the allegations. Now, bosses are said to be set to offer those at the centre of the storm the chance of rehab. It's also claimed there could be random drug tests added to the upcoming tours, which are known to include after-parties. A source told the Sun, following the breakout news: "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 OK." They added: "As per BBC policy, the option of specialised professional support is on the table and will be offered. While drug testing won't happen on the main show, bosses are considering bringing in random checks for the tour next year." In a statement shared with the Mirror over the weekend, a representative for the BBC 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. It would not be appropriate for us to comment further."
Daily Mirror
29-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Strictly Come Dancing contestant 'confirmed' as fans spot huge reality star at rehearsals
Eagle-eyed Strictly Come Dancing stars have reportedly spotted a huge star arriving at the BBC Elstree studios for rehearsals The Strictly Come Dancing professionals were all smiles as they rocked up for the first day of rehearsals for the new series on Monday. Ahead of its launch in September, a whole host of familiar faces were papped on Monday morning as they made their way into the rehearsal studio and they were joined by two new recruits. However, it wasn't just the professional dancers that caught fans eyes as one huge reality TV star was reportedly seen arriving at the studio in BBC's Elstree base. According to onlookers, none other than former Love Island star Dani Dyer was spotted arriving at the studios. Naturally, this has sent Strictly fans into overdrive as they believe that mum-of-three Dani, 28, would be the perfect contestant for the long-running BBC dance competition. Sharing a post to Reddit, one user 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??" Someone else replied: "She is rumoured actually! I guess she will be on it, she'll be good." And another Reddit user echoed: "I've heard her name floating around so that would be brill news." Last month, Dani's name was thrown into the hat as rumours began to circulate about who the stars would be this year. A source told The Sun at the time: "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." It comes after all of the professional dancers, old and new, were seen arriving at the very first day of rehearsals for the long-awaited 2025 series. First to be seen arriving, was much-loved star, Amy Dowden, who is back in business after being forced to leave the show early last year while recovering from a foot injury. The Welsh wonder, who also underwent chemotherapy and a mastectomy in May 2023 following her breast cancer diagnosis, looked delighted to be back with her pals as she smiled for photographers, clutching a coffee and a Holland and Barret bag. Also flashing a smile a mile wide was last year's champion, Dianne Buswell. The Aussie, who lifted the Glitterball trophy with Chris McCausland, arrived at the dance studio sporting a tan waistcoat and matching boots with cut-off denim shorts alongside fellow pro, Kai Widdrington, who flashed the peace sign. Next to arrive was South African star, Johannes Radebe, who cut a striking figure, sporting a Protect The Dolls a paisley neckerchief and suede ankle boots. He was followed by Spanish champion, Gorka Marquez and Ukranian dancer, Nadiya Bychkova, who looked gorgeous in an all-cream ensemble with a Union Jack bag. Nadiya recently admitted that she and pro, Kai, no longer speak to one another after they briefly dated, so hopefully things will go smoothly in training today. Also seen at the studio were Vito Coppola, Lauren Oakley, Karen Hauer and Michelle Tsiakkas. They were joined by Jowita Przystal and Janette Manrara's husband, Aljaz Skorjanec. And finally, making their debut in the Strictly gang were new recruits, Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon. Alexis, hailing from the US, triumphed in So You Think You Can Dance in 2022, earning the title of America's Favourite Dancer and becoming the first female Ballroom and Latin dancer to win the accolade. Meanwhile, Julian, originally from Australia, started dancing at the tender age of 10, focusing on Ballroom and Latin American styles, and has proudly represented Australia in international competitions. The Mirror has contacted Dani Dyer's representatives and a Strictly Come Dancing spokesperson for comment on this story.
