## Strictly Come Dancing 2025: Fears of Fresh Controversy as Speculated Line-up Emerges
**The BBC is reportedly determined to take extra precautions in compiling the 2025 line-up for its flagship entertainment series, Strictly Come Dancing, following a string of controversies that have cast a shadow over recent editions of the much-loved dance competition.**
As whispers circulate about possible participants for next year’s series, sources claim BBC executives are especially wary of inviting further scandal after a number of damaging incidents in the public eye. The broadcaster is believed to be conducting robust background checks on celebrities considered for the show, vowing to avoid further embarrassment and preserve the programme’s cherished reputation for family-friendly fun.
Strictly, which attracts millions of viewers each autumn, has not been immune to negative headlines lately. Most recently, EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick, who appeared in the 2024 series, was reportedly suspended after being accused of using a derogatory remark about disabled people during filming in Blackpool. The 30-year-old actor, a familiar face to fans since 2006, has since apologised publicly, expressing deep regret for his choice of words and pledging to learn from the mistake.
This incident came hot on the heels of a scandal involving Giovanni Pernice, a regular Strictly professional, who faced allegations of bullying and aggressive behaviour from his celebrity partner, Amanda Abbington. The BBC had initiated an internal review into the claims, though it highlighted the delicate balance the broadcaster must strike when overseeing high-profile talent.
Further embarrassment hit earlier in the year when long-serving BBC radio presenter Wynne Evans announced he would leave the corporation, following the non-renewal of his contract. Evans had been under scrutiny since apologising for making an inappropriate comment directed at Strictly professional and presenter Janette Manrara during the tour’s launch. His departure was noted by many as another sign that the programme’s wider circle of talent is not immune to misjudgements.
Insiders quoted by several national newspapers suggest that BBC managers are feeling ‘a terrible, terrible fear’ that any repetition of such controversies could seriously damage Strictly’s image. “With that in mind, they are taking no chances,” remarked one anonymous source, adding that comprehensive checks and in-depth investigations into personal histories would now be standard procedure for all future cast members.
Amid this atmosphere of heightened scrutiny, names reported to be in the frame for next year’s series include Blue Peter presenters Joel Mawhinney and Shini Muthukrishnan, the well-known food critic and royal connection Tom Parker Bowles, as well as widely recognised personalities such as Georgia Toffolo, Nicola Roberts from Girls Aloud, Love Island star Dani Dyer and ex-Coronation Street actress Helen Flanagan. Although official confirmation is still awaited, the diversity of rumoured contenders illustrates the broadcaster’s intent to blend star appeal with reliability.
Such intensive vetting is an acknowledgement of both the show’s extraordinary popularity and the risks associated with the round-the-clock scrutiny social media brings. Strictly has weathered many challenging stories over the past decade, including what once was dubbed the ‘Strictly curse’—a reference to off-screen relationships that occasionally caused tabloid uproar. However, persistent ratings success has meant the show has generally remained in the public’s good graces, with past measures to protect its reputation largely considered effective.
Nevertheless, the BBC appears committed to setting a new standard of diligence. As one source explained, organisers are now going beyond just matching dance partners and are instead working to ensure “no one who could tarnish the show’s reputation is chosen.” Further changes to safeguarding procedures and partnership arrangements are rumoured, as the broadcaster moves to guarantee a strictly wholesome tone in future episodes.
Jamie Borthwick, reflecting on his own suspension, emphasised his remorse in a recent statement: “I want to apologise sincerely and wholeheartedly for the words I used in the video showing my reaction to making it through Blackpool week on Strictly. It is no excuse, but I did not fully understand the derogatory term I used and its meaning. That is on me completely. Now I am aware, I am deeply embarrassed to have used the term and directed it in the way I did. It was wrong.”
As anticipation builds for the 2025 series, fans are left wondering who will step onto the ballroom floor—and whether the BBC’s new approach will indeed safeguard the show’s cherished image. What remains clear is that Strictly Come Dancing, a mainstay of Saturday night TV, is entering a new era of vigilance both on and off the dancefloor.