Strictly Come Dancing’s 20th anniversary year has been nothing but nightmarish so far. There have been allegations of bullying and a toxic workplace. Two professional dancers have departed under clouds. Questions have been asked about the show’s duty of care. There were even fears that this year’s series might not go ahead at all.
Nonetheless, it’s ballroom business as usual and the Strictly class of 2024 has now been unveiled in full. Can this year’s intake help the BBC behemoth bounce back from its summer of scandal? The jury is out. There have been ye olde grumblings about too many reality stars and ringers with dance experience. Many have been underwhelmed by the lacklustre lineup – although once the hoofing gets under way and viewers fall for the pairings, disappointment does tend to dissipate.
