Strictly Come Dancing Shifts Away from Same-Sex Pairings for 20th Series
BBC's Strictly Come Dancing reportedly decides against same-sex couples for its upcoming 20th anniversary series, marking a change after five years. The decision comes amidst recent controversies and a possible return to traditional format.
The British television dance contest Strictly Come Dancing is reportedly making a significant change for its upcoming 20th anniversary series. According to sources, the show will not feature same-sex couples for the first time in five years, potentially signaling a return to its traditional format.
This decision comes after a period of progressive changes in the show's history. In 2019, professionals Johannes Radebe and Graziano Di Prima performed the first same-sex dance on the program. Despite attracting 189 complaints, the BBC maintained that a contestant's gender should not influence their dancing.
The following year marked a milestone when former boxer Nicola Adams and dancer Katya Jones became the first same-sex couple to compete. Unfortunately, their journey was cut short due to a positive COVID-19 test. In 2021, celebrity chef John Whaite and Johannes Radebe made history by becoming the first same-sex duo to reach the final.
The show's evolution continued in 2022 with comedian Jayde Adams paired with Karen Hauer, although they were eliminated in the fifth week. Most recently, Layton Williams and Nikita Kuzmin impressed audiences by making it to the final in 2023.
"The BBC wants to be seen as inclusive and progressive, but executives are aware that not everyone is going to like same-sex pairings."
Despite these groundbreaking moments, the show has faced recent challenges. Allegations of misconduct have surfaced, including claims against professional dancers Graziano Di Prima and Giovanni Pernice. These incidents may have influenced the decision to revert to a more traditional approach.
The upcoming series, set to air in September 2024, will feature a diverse cast of celebrities. Contestants include Love Island star Tasha Ghouri, singer Toyah Willcox, actress Sarah Hadland, DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles, and former footballer Paul Merson. Notably, only six of the 15 celebrity contestants are female this year.
Despite the recent controversies, judge Craig Revel Horwood remains optimistic about the show's future. He believes that Strictly Come Dancing can overcome these challenges and continue to captivate audiences.
As the show approaches its 20th anniversary, it's worth noting its significant impact on British television. Since its inception in 2004, Strictly Come Dancing has become a cultural phenomenon, spawning international versions in over 40 countries and winning numerous awards, including BAFTAs and National Television Awards.
The enduring popularity of the show is evident in its ability to turn professional dancers into celebrities and create memorable moments, from themed weeks to the coveted Glitterball Trophy. As Strictly Come Dancing evolves, it continues to balance tradition with innovation, ensuring its place in the hearts of viewers across the UK.
