A Strictly Come Dancing pundit has identified a 'subtle' hint at the scandal that has overshadowed the show as it kicked off its 20th series on Saturday night. Betfred's Showbiz Specialist, Kayley Cornelius, observed that some of the professional dancers made 'noticeable' gestures towards allowing their celebrity partners time to rest amidst allegations surrounding Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima.
Neither of the professional dancers returned for this year's series. Giovanni, who partnered with celebrity Amanda Abbington in the 2023 season, has firmly denied any accusations of wrongdoing during practice sessions.
Graziano has meanwhile acknowledged accidentally kicking his partner, TV personality Zara McDermott, in last year's rehearsals. Following these events, the BBC has committed to handling any complaints with the highest level of "care, fairness and sensitivity" and is currently investigating the allegations.
Kayley commented: "A very squeaky clean pilot episode for Strictly Come Dancing. Although, there were subtle but noticeable references to taking breaks and resting throughout and it's clear the pros are feeling the pressure to move past the allegations and put the controversy behind them."
"Overall however, it was a strong first episode back at the Glitterball. This year's cast seems very well-matched, and the Strictly sparkle is certainly still shining. If the rest of the series continues like this, the show could be on track to make a U-turn and restore its tarnished reputation."
Betfred's Kayley Cornelius analysed the odds, stating: "After opening night at Strictly, odds for betting market topper JB Gill to win this year's series have been shortened even further. Previously priced at 4/1, JB now sits at a more competitive 3/1."
"With the former JLS star partnered up with Strictly pro Amy Dowden in what is set to be a landmark year for her as she makes her highly anticipated return to the dancefloor, punters now believe the duo are unstoppable and backing them to go all the way in the competition.
"However, the same can't be said for Nick Knowles and Paul Merson, as their chances of winning the Glitterball trophy seem to be slipping away. Both have seen their odds lengthen from 50/1 to 100/1."
Strictly Come Dancing odds to win:
JB Gill - 3/1
Tasha Ghouri - 4/1
Shayne Ward - 4/1
Sam Quek - 7/1
Montell Douglas - 8/1
Jamie Borthwick - 8/1
Chris McCausland- 12/1
Pete Wicks - 12/1
Sarah Hadland - 14/1
Tom Dean - 20/1
