From unhappy viewers to judges at war, what’s really going on at Strictly?
It scooped the gong for Best Talent Show at the NTAs this year – as well as in several previous years – but while it’s undoubtedly one of the most popular shows on TV, could the wheels be falling off behind the scenes at Strictly Come Dancing?
This year’s opening show pulled in 6.6 million viewers, compared to 6.8 million last year and 7.9 million in 2021. The hit BBC show, which began back in 2004, was once a family favourite that was all about the dancing. But with contestants said to be falling out backstage, the judges clashing on air and fans saying that it’s time for a change, is Strictly due a shake-up?
Viewers’ criticism
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have been at the helm together since 2014, when Claudia took over from the late Bruce Forsyth, and while we can hardly imagine Strictly without the duo, fans appear to be tiring of them. ‘I really do think it’s about time Strictly had new presenters. Tess and Claudia are as stale as Craig’s criticisms,’ one viewer said, while another added, ‘Tess & Claudia painfully continue to cancel each other out. Claudia’s so patronising & deeply irritating. Needs an overdue freshen up.’ While a third unhappy fan commented, ‘I genuinely don’t think Tess wants to be there any more.’
And the hosts aren’t the only Strictly stars slammed by viewers. Many are also unhappy with how head judge Shirley Ballas has scored some of the female contestants. ‘Of course. Another low score from Shirley for a woman,’ one said, with another adding, ‘Shirley being the lowest score for the young female again... surprise surprise.’ Another commented, ‘Shirley’s dislike for young women is again so obvious.’
The bad-mouthing has become such an issue for Shirley, she’s admitted that, due to death threats, she’s scared to leave her house. ‘It’s when it is personal about myself and my family and it affects my mental health,’ she confessed. ‘I am talking about being in public. You worry about those same strange people that write these kinds of messages. Are they lurking in dark corners? Are they hiding behind walls when you go somewhere? I cannot say that I leave my front door unless I am on point.’
Contestant clashes
Every year, both the celebrities taking part in Strictly and the professional dancers can often refer to themselves as a fami
