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Strictly Come Dancing's Casting Crisis

The BBC's flagship show, Strictly Come Dancing, is facing a significant challenge in securing contestants for its upcoming season. Recent controversies involving contestants from previous years have led to increased scrutiny and a focus on finding 'wholesome' participants.

Controversies and Investigations

• Jamie Borthwick, an EastEnders actor and former contestant, was suspended following the release of a video showing him using a derogatory slur.
• Wynne Evans, another former contestant, faced an investigation and was subsequently let go from the BBC after making an inappropriate comment and a reported incident of unwanted physical contact.
• Previous seasons also saw controversies including allegations of bullying against professional dancer Giovanni Pernice and the sacking of Graziano di Prima after an incident with his partner.

These incidents have prompted a heightened sense of caution among BBC executives, who are implementing stricter vetting processes for potential contestants to safeguard the show's reputation.

The Search for Wholesome Contestants

The BBC is actively seeking contestants with a clean image, prioritizing those less likely to generate further controversy. Two Blue Peter presenters, Joel Mawhinney and Shini Muthukrishnan, are reportedly being considered, along with other potential candidates such as Tom Parker Bowles, Georgia Toffolo, and Nicola Roberts.

Impact on the Show

The ongoing challenges in finding suitable contestants, compounded by difficulties in appointing a head publicist after past scandals, reflect the pressure placed on Strictly Come Dancing. The show's immense popularity has increased the level of scrutiny it faces, making the selection process even more demanding.