Strictly Come Dancing has suffered another blow just days before the show returns.
The BBC show, renowned for its dazzling costumes and show-stopping performances, typically sees its professional dancers showcase their talents in venues nationwide. However, recent scandals have cast a shadow over the programme.
Ex-professional dancers Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima have been embroiled in controversy following allegations of bullying by their celebrity partners. Actress Amanda Abbington has claimed she experienced PTSD after her stint with Giovanni.
Months later, Zara McDermott shared her own experience, having been paired with Graziano, who faced accusations of kicking her.
Seasoned dancer Aljaz Skorjanec has also been subject to claims concerning his conduct during a tour, although The Mirror reports that no official complaint has been lodged against Aljaz with the BBC regarding the tour.
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And now in a fresh blow, it's reported that the Professionals Tour has also been cancelled.
A source has claimed: "Strictly is trying to rebuild as a brand and The Professionals tour was known as a hotbed of drinking and fun.
"The pro dancers work hard and play hard but with everything that's happened recently, it seems axing it eliminates the chance of any further issues."
They told The Sun that those who work on the tour have been informed it's cancelled.
On Monday, it was hinted that the findings from the ongoing investigation into the show could be made public within days. Eager fans are on tenterhooks for the results of the internal probe.
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Abbington is thought to have been the first to voice concerns, levelling accusations of "bullying" and "aggressive behaviour" at Giovanni, allegations he has firmly denied.
With the 20th series' glamorous launch this Saturday, it's reported that the BBC is eager to put the controversy to rest. According to The Sun, with the new series' debut imminent, "the £250,000 probe has now reviewed all evidence".
The report further suggests Amanda is bracing for "bad news", fearing that the executives may have "sided" with Giovanni.
In the midst of the scandal, the BBC declared that same month that it was implementing "additional steps to strengthen welfare and support" on the show. These measures reportedly include having a member of the production team present in training room rehearsals "at all times".
