BBC Strictly Come Dancing backlash as fans left fuming over Lauren Oakley 'snub'
Strictly Come Dancing's Lauren Oakley has been left without a partner for the 2024 series leaving fans of the hit dance competition show furious.
The glamorous BBC One series returned to our screens on Saturday (September 14), marking the start of its 20th year. Hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman were back to introduce another group of 15 celebrities to the dance floor for its pre-recorded launch show.
Celebrities such as JB Gill, Tasha Ghouri and Nick Knowles have all signed up to strut their stuff in an attempt to secure a place in the final and win the coveted Glitterball trophy.
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Judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke are also back, ready to share their initial impressions of the pairings. The series also sees the return of fan-favourite pro Amy Dowden, following her battle with breast cancer.
However, one noticeable pro without a celebrity partner this year is Lauren. The Birmingham-based dancer joined the show last year, partnering with Krishnan Guru-Murthy, reports the Express.
But for the 2024 series, she is not part of the main professional dancer line-up and viewers suspect this is due to Giovanni Pernice.
Fans will remember that Giovanni left the show earlier this year, following bullying allegations from his celebrity dance partner Amanda Abbington. Giovanni strongly refutes the claims made by Amanda.
After Lauren was notably absent from the Strictly Come Dancing 2024 line-up, fans speculated that her friendship with Giovanni Pernice might be a factor in her not being paired with a celebrity. Lauren, who is close friends with Giovanni and joined him on his 'Let Me Entertain You' tour, has sparked conversation among viewers.
One fan expressed their dismay on X, formerly known as Twitter: "Why hasn't @laurenmayoakley been given a partner this year? ? Booooo."
"Hope this isn't something kind of punishment for her remaining close professionally to Gio. Will miss seeing your amazing teaching this year, Lauren! ".
Another chimed in questioning if her support for Giovanni was related: "Do you think it's anything to do with her supporting Gio? " in response to another fan's post expressing disappointment at Lauren's absence.
Meanwhile, on Instagram, one follower pondered: "Am I right in thinking that it is because Lauren is supporting Giovanni on his tour? " Another also suggested: "Lauren and Kai have both supported Giovanni is that why they didn't get a partner?" The BBC has been contacted the BBC for a comment.
Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday on BBC One