BBC Strictly Come Dancing share same complaint just minutes into 2024 launch show
Strictly Come Dancing returned with fanfare for its landmark 20th series, featuring a dazzling array of celebrities poised to compete for the coveted glitterball trophy. The beloved presenting duo, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, graced the iconic ballroom once more on Saturday (September 16), as they hosted the pre-recorded launch episode broadcasted across the UK on BBC One.
Not only did Tess and Claudia make their anticipated comeback, but the judging panel also saw the return of Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke, all ready to pass judgement on the fresh batch of 15 celebrity and professional pairings.
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Before the glamorous co-hosts could introduce the class of 2024 to the eagerly awaiting audience, some viewers at home winced at the show's opener. In a pre-taped segment, the professional dancers and hosts were shown strutting their stuff onboard a party bus.
Viewers swiftly voiced their opinions on X, formerly known as Twitter, with one spectator commenting: "All this is so cringe.", reports the Mirror.
Another chimed in with: "#Strictly The dreadful acting is making me cringe big time! " while a third remarked: "Nah sorry the intro is naff! ." Additionally, a fourth critic declared: "Well this intro is crap."
Nonetheless, plenty of fans were overjoyed by Strictly's return, with one viewer exclaiming: "Oh this intro sketch is so camp i'm a bit obsessed." Another echoed the sentiment stating: "Love the opening so glad Strictly is back."
After a period rife with controversy, the beloved Strictly Come Dancing series is back in the spotlight. The show has faced significant backlash, particularly concerning two of its professional dancers, Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima, both of whom have since exited the programme.
Giovanni, who danced alongside actress Amanda Abbington in the 2023 series, has refuted any allegations of abusive or threatening behaviour during practice sessions.
On the other hand, Graziano has admitted to an incident where he kicked his TV star dance partner Zara McDermott during a rehearsal last year. In response to these events, the BBC has assured that it will address any complaints with "care, fairness and sensitivity", yet many details about the incidents remain unclear.
Tim Davie, the BBC's director general, has extended an apology to those Strictly participants who endured negative experiences. At the BBC's annual report launch, he expressed his "disappointment" upon learning that several celebrity contestants had raised concerns over abusive conduct from their professional dance partners during rehearsals.
He affirmed the return of the show but cautioned that while a competitive spirit is expected, professional dancers must not engage in "unacceptable" behaviour. He emphasised: "There will be a degree of competitiveness and will to do well, but there are limits and the line should never be crossed. We never tolerate unacceptable behaviour of any kind."
Strictly Come Dancing airs Saturdays and Sundays on BBC One