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Police review new Strictly allegations

BBC confirms it has referred fresh claims to the Metropolitan Police while continuing to cooperate with investigators.

August 16, 2025 at 11:11 PM
blur BBC asks police to investigate new Strictly allegations, reports say

The BBC asks the Metropolitan Police to review fresh allegations about Strictly Come Dancing amid reports of cocaine use by two stars.

BBC asks police to investigate new Strictly allegations reports say

The BBC has asked the Metropolitan Police to investigate new allegations about Strictly Come Dancing after the Sun on Sunday reported that two stars may have used cocaine. The BBC would not comment on police investigations, per its standard stance. The Sun said the BBC alerted police to the new claims and that Pinsent Masons is leading the inquiry. The report adds to a 2024 BBC review into bullying and harassment on the show, a probe that led to changes in welfare and training practices.

The welfare updates include a chaperone in training room rehearsals described as present at all times. Separately, EastEnders actor James Borthwick was suspended after a video surfaced showing a disabled slur on the set of the show. The cocaine allegations were said to be raised in a legal submission by Russells on behalf of Wynne Evans, a former contestant who apologised for using inappropriate language during the Strictly tour launch and was later dropped by the BBC. The BBC often engages external law firms to guide investigations, a practice it uses to handle serious complaints while maintaining process integrity.

Key Takeaways

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Police review adds external scrutiny to a high profile show
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BBC denies commenting on investigations
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Welfare measures aim to improve culture on set
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External law firms often lead internal investigations
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Past misconduct reviews have shaped current practices
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Public trust will depend on transparency and speed of action

"We have clear protocols and policies in place for dealing with any serious complaint raised with us"

BBC spokesperson on handling complaints

"We would always encourage people to speak to us if they have concerns"

BBC spokesperson reassurance

"A chaperone is present at all times during training room rehearsals"

Welfare measure announced by BBC

"It would not be appropriate for us to comment further"

BBC response to investigations

The move to involve the police signals a shift toward external accountability, which can sharpen public confidence if handled with openness. It also raises questions about transparency and how much detail the BBC will disclose as this unfolds. Welfare reforms show the BBC trying to fix culture, but trust will hinge on timely updates and real changes.

External legal involvement can protect the process, yet it may invite speculation about the BBCs ability to police its own ranks. Viewers will watch for clear timelines and tangible outcomes. This episode tests whether media institutions can balance duty to staff, duty to viewers, and the obligation to be accountable to the public.

Highlights

  • We have clear protocols and policies in place for dealing with any serious complaint raised with us
  • We would always encourage people to speak to us if they have concerns
  • A chaperone is present at all times during training room rehearsals
  • The BBC often appoints external law firms to help it lead investigations

Sensitive topic triggers public reaction risk

Fresh allegations about a high profile TV show, plus police involvement and past misconduct reviews, create potential public backlash and scrutiny of budget and governance. Details may be limited, raising questions about transparency.

The story is still developing as investigators review the evidence and the BBC coordinates with authorities.

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