Sam Quek, Olympic gold medalist and former England hockey player, has spoken out in defense of Strictly Come Dancing amidst ongoing bullying allegations. The contestant asserts that these claims should not detract from the show's positive impact, stating, "There's two sides to the truth. It shouldn't take the shine off Strictly."
Quek's comments come as the BBC prepares to release findings from a review into bullying allegations made by Amanda Abbington against her former partner, Giovanni Pernice. Pernice denies these claims but has since departed from the show. Additionally, Graziano Di Prima was removed from the program following an incident with partner Zara McDermott, while Aljaz Skorjanec faces new allegations related to the 2022 Strictly tour.
Despite these controversies, new contestants express confidence in the show's support measures. Sarah Hadland, known for her role in Miranda, noted the introduction of additional duty-of-care measures, including chaperones in the rehearsal room. "We've been introduced to so many people that are there for support," Hadland remarked.
This year's lineup features six female and nine male contestants. Among them is former Arsenal star Paul Merson, who joins the show despite warnings from his ex-teammate Tony Adams. Merson revealed, "He said it's the hardest thing he's ever done," but chose to participate as a tribute to his mother, a devoted fan of the program.
Strictly Come Dancing, which first aired in 2004, has become a cultural phenomenon in the UK. The show has spawned numerous international adaptations and has been recognized by Guinness World Records as the most successful reality TV format globally. Over its 20-year history, Strictly has featured more than 300 celebrities and raised millions for charity.
As the show enters its 21st series, it continues to captivate audiences with its blend of glamour, competition, and entertainment. Despite the recent controversies, Strictly Come Dancing remains a beloved fixture in British television, bringing together millions of viewers each week to celebrate the art of dance.
"It's a fantastic programme. Everyone loves it for the energy. On Saturday nights, it brings people together. It's just a positive show."
While the bullying allegations have cast a shadow over the program, the enduring popularity of Strictly Come Dancing and the enthusiasm of its new contestants suggest that the show will continue to waltz its way into the hearts of viewers across the nation.