All the Strictly scandals: From bullying claims to 'curse' affairs

Strictly Come Dancing is back next week, bringing it with all the usual glitter, pizzazz and show-stopping routines.

However, coming hand-in-hand with the fabulous dancers and larger-than-life judges, is drama that sometimes can overshadow the show itself.

Former contestant Rev Richard Coles has previously called the BBC hit a “wonderful show with a dark heart”.

Strictly Come Dancing is back next week PA As we gear up for the new season, let’s take a look back at all the scandals across the show’s run, and hope that the upcoming series is in for a much smoother ride.

The BBC show was the subject of a review in 2024 after Amanda Abbington , 52, alleged her professional partner, Giovanni Pernice , had bullied and harassed her during the 2023 series.

The actor, who prematurely quit the show, branded her partner as "unnecessary, abusive, cruel and mean", claims of which Pernice rejected.

Amanda Abbington (Ian West/PA) PA Archive The professional dancer, who was removed from that year’s lineup after the claims, welcomed the conclusion of the review, in which the corporation upheld some but not all of the complaints.

Pernice’s former dance partners Good Morning Britain host Ranvir Singh and former Love Island presenter Laura Whitmore , also came forward detailing “inapprorpriate behaviour”. Pernice was outspoken in his defence, saying that he’s a “perfectionist” and that he likes to win.

Giovanni Pernice was the subject of a BBC investigation after Amanda Abbington made numerous allegations about his behaviour PA Archive Abbington was awarded an out-of-court settlement. with the five-figure sum paid by BBC Studios, meaning the funds did not come from the licence fee.

The BBC also apologised to Abbington, which she called a "vindication of [her] complaint". A spokesperson for Pernice said that he was "pleased" the report "has not found any evidence of threatening or abusive behaviour.”

In 2024, former Love Island contestant Zara McDermott said that her 2023 dance partner, Strictly pro Graziano Di Prima had kicked and spat on her during rehearsals. This came after the BBC launched an official probe into the Pernice claims.

Zara McDermott arrives for the Pride of Britain Awards with Graziano Di Prima PA Wire McDermott put up an Instagram Story where she wrote: “Reports have been made about my treatment on the show and there were witnesses to some events, as well as some videos of particular incidents which are incredibly distressing to watch.

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