Story Highlight
– Strictly Come Dancing star arrested for rape allegations.
– Investigation includes non-consensual intimate image abuse claims.
– BBC received third-party allegations of drug-related offenses.
– Drug use on set allegedly widespread and known.
– BBC faces multiple controversies involving various staff members.
Full Story
A contestant from the popular television series Strictly Come Dancing has been arrested on suspicion of rape and related offenses. The individual, whose identity has not been disclosed, is being questioned by police regarding allegations of non-consensual intimate image abuse.
A spokesperson from the Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest occurred on Friday, August 22, stating, “Officers arrested a man on suspicion of rape and non-consensual intimate image abuse.” The investigation is being conducted in collaboration with Hertfordshire Constabulary, and authorities are encouraging anyone with pertinent information to come forward. Authorities also indicated that the individual alleging rape is receiving support from specialist officers.
In response to the developing situation, a BBC spokesperson remarked, “It would not be appropriate to comment on an ongoing police investigation.” They added that there is currently no indication that the allegations are connected to the latest series of Strictly.
This incident marks a significant challenge for a program already facing scrutiny. Just weeks before the show is set to return for its next season, Strictly has been embroiled in controversies. Last season, Wynne Evans, aged 53, was compelled to apologize for making a sexually inappropriate statement during a press event, despite denying the claim; he was later dismissed by the BBC.
In another case, Amanda Abbington, aged 51, raised concerns about Giovanni Pernice, 34, accusing him of behavior described as “unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean.” Although Pernice was cleared of most of the allegations, some findings corroborated Abbington’s claims of verbal harassment.
The show has also been under investigation due to allegations that two of its stars used cocaine, with reports suggesting that one of the individuals involved was suspected of consuming alcohol while working on set. An insider revealed that junior crew members were tasked with monitoring the behavior of these stars during last year’s filming, as their reputations for partying were widely acknowledged.
A former crew member, who worked on Strictly for ten years prior to 2023, disclosed the prevalence of substance use during and after shows. He stated, “The main partying is on site at Elstree after filming… the smoking area outside is a hive of activity.” He further recounted an instance when a suspicious substance was found, which a senior producer dismissed without concern.
Notably, the Blackpool Tower Ballroom special has been described as a particularly raucous occasion, with one performer reportedly offering cocaine at an after-party that lasted until dawn.
In light of these allegations, the BBC is reportedly taking steps to ensure the welfare of those involved, having engaged a law firm to investigate the claims brought forth by Wynne Evans as part of a legal submission regarding drug use by the two performers. A source informed the press that the BBC acknowledges these serious allegations and is prepared to provide professional support if necessary.
While drug testing is not planned for the standard series, considerations for random checks during future tours are being discussed, depending on the outcomes of the investigation.
In other developments at the BBC, Gregg Wallace has been removed from MasterChef following multiple upheld complaints against him, while fellow presenter John Torode was also dismissed due to allegations concerning inappropriate language. Additionally, BBC Breakfast host Naga Munchetty is reportedly under review amid claims of bullying behavior toward a junior colleague, with an investigation into the matter potentially forthcoming.
