BBC Strictly star breaks silence on new show measures after pros leave
Strictly Come Dancing's Sam Quek spoke about the new chaperone policy on Thursday's edition of BBC Breakfast.
The Olympic medallist and broadcaster, 35, who is set to take to the dance floor this autumn, addressed the BBC's introduction of chaperones during rehearsals.
This comes after pro dancer Graziano Di Prima was axed following misconduct claims, with Giovanni Pernice also leaving the show after allegations which he denies. Under the new policy, Strictly Come Dancing production staff will be present in rehearsal spaces, a move prompted by recent complaints.
Discussing the chaperones, Sam commented: "I think chaperone probably sounds a little bit, in my opinion, like they're following us around and babysitting us. They're telling us what to do and where to be, it's not like that at all."
She went on to say: "We've literally just got someone in the room and we're just doing our thing. We also have a VT crew, video crew in there recording your training. But to be honest, as I say, you don't really notice. You're in the room doing your thing with your pro", reports the Express.
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Elsewhere during the interview, BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty grilled Sam about her professional dance partner, whose identity will remain under wraps until the upcoming launch show on Saturday.
When asked if her dance partner was keeping an eye on her BBC Breakfast appearance, Sam nearly slipped with his name, reacting by saying: "I hope so and I was about to say his name!" while quickly covering her mouth and being reminded to be 'very careful'.
She also praised her professional dance partner, adding: "My partner is brilliant, he's got patience, he's funny, he's able to have a laugh but also bring me back to the: 'Right, we need to concentrate, move on.' I'm just loving every single minute."
Towards the interview's conclusion, Naga, 49, made another attempt to uncover the identity of her partner, asking: "What's the name of your partner?" to which Sam playfully responded: "Nearly, nearly Naga, nearly! Well played!" which resulted in a giggling Naga replying: "It was worth a go!"
Earlier in the year, Sam became the fifteenth star announced for the newest series of Strictly Come Dancing. Reflecting on joining the show, she remarked: "As a former hockey player I'm used to playing as part of a team, but the thought of dancing on the Ballroom floor in front of a live audience is quite daunting!"
She went on to express her excitement about the show, saying: "I'm chuffed to be a part of this legendary show and Quickstep into the shoes of a performer, it feels absolutely surreal but I'm ready for every bit of the adventure."
BBC Breakfast continues everyday at 6am on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.