CELEBRITY
Strictly hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly ‘vow to stand by the show’ after ‘abuse’ scandal – amid claims male pros are ‘concerned’ about impact of allegations
Strictly Come Dancing hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly have reportedly vowed to stand by the show after the recent alleged ‘abuse’ scandals that have emerged.
Graziano Di Prima, 30, was axed from the upcoming series over reports he verbally and physically abused his celebrity partner Zara McDermott, 27, during last year’s competition.
This came after Giovanni Pernice, 33, was suspended from the show last month over claims of off-camera misconduct – which he denies – made by Amanda Abbington, 50, and two other former celeb partners.
But according to a new report Tess, 55, and Claudia, 52, are going to continue to work on the show and won’t be leaving any time soon as the BBC attempts to steady the ship.
A source told The Sun: ‘Just like everyone else Tess and Claudia are shocked by the allegations which are coming to light.
‘Naturally in light of the show being plunged into scandal those who work on the programme have speculated if either of them will want to jump ship.
‘However, privately both Tess and Claudia have vowed to stand by the show and co-present this year’s series in a few months
‘To them Strictly is very much a family and they want to give the show and bosses their full support.’
The BBC has been contacted by MailOnline for comment.
Tess has co-hosted the show since it launched in 2004, with Claudia joining her in 2014 after the passing of Bruce Forsyth.
It comes as the Strictly crisis has deepened in recent days, with other male dancers now expressing concerns about how they could be impacted.
It’s now been revealed that the allegations have left some male professionals from the BBC show concerned about how or if they will be affected.
A source told MailOnline on Thursday that the male dancers are ‘very concerned and worried how this is going to affect them’ and are said to be ‘feeling like it’s the new #MeToo’.