Goodbye to Strictly - could this year's series could mark the end

The BBC has continued to entertain audiences for years and Strictly Come Dancing has remained at the forefront of Saturday night television with other shows such as X Factor falling to the wayside. It was a jewel in the crown with millions of viewers tuning into see their favourite celebrities compete in glamorous costumes for the Glitterball Trophy. Strictly has something that most shows don't possess - from its unique blend of glitz and glamour to uplifting moments. We are captivated by the sequins, costumes and the celebrities journey throughout the competition. But this year's series feels a little lucklustre. The magic somewhat has gone. Will we soon be saying goodbye to a much-loved show?

It has not helped that the for the past two years Strictly has been embroiled in scandal after scandal - making headlines for all of the wrong reasons. While past gossip used to be focused on possible romantic connections between celebrity contestants and their professional dancers it has been less of that in recent times. Instead, the controversy surrounding the show is quite alarming.

Former contestant Wynne Evans, 53, was accused of inappropriate behaviour and forced to apologise for making an unacceptable sexual remark on stage at a press event, which led to him resigning from the Strictly tour last year. In 2023, actress Amanda Abbington, 51, complained about professional dancer Giovanni Pernice, 34, being "unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean" during their rehearsals which she said caused her to quit midway through the season.

Following a BBC investigation, six of Amanda's allegations towards Giovanni were upheld and he was cleared on 11 out of 17, and has since gone onto win the Italian version of the competition with his now girlfriend Bianca Guaccero.

And in the same year, former Love Island contestant Zara McDermott, 28, was left "incredibly distressed" following her experience in the training room with Graziano Di Prima, 31, who admitted to kicking the documentary maker, resulting in his axing.

What was once seen as a fun and light-hearted show has seen very serious accusations thrown at its door which has ultimately altered how we view it.

Another glaring issue are the latest show recruits.

The cast this year includes several former reality stars such as Love Island winner Dani Dyer, (who has been replaced by Amber Davies) ex-Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison, Apprentice candidate Tom Skinner, RuPaul's Drag Race runner-up La Voix, and Gladiator Harry Aikines-Aryeetey. Also, YouTuber George Clarke was added to the lineup.

Strictly bosses are believed to have previously banned influencers and reality stars from taking part but they seem to be the only "celebrities" interested. While the show attracts a wide range of ages, the majority of their audience are reportedly older viewers aged 55 and up, according to previous statistics. So while they are trying to appeal to a much younger audience much of their older demographic probably don't have a clue who these latest stars are on the dancefloor.

But despite its recent shortcomings - Strictly has proven they're committed to diversity and equal representation in its line-ups. From Chris McCausland being the first ever blind contestant to ever enter the competition and go on to win the show - to this year's contestant Ellie Goldstein. The actor and model is the first person with Down's syndrome to grace the cover of British Vogue - and is a long-standing fan of the show.

The show has changed a lot over the past 21 years and has flourished where other dance shows have failed. Remember The Greatest Dancer? Exactly, neither do I. While the picture-perfect image of Strictly has been slightly skewed its heartwarming nature still remains. So while they say all good things must come to an end lets hope Strictly won't be a victim of that anytime soon.