BBC Strictly Come Dancing future 'decided' after male star arrested on suspicion of rape

BBC bosses are adamant that the latest Strictly Come Dancing series will proceed as planned after a male star was arrested by police on suspicion of rape. The individual, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, is also facing questioning over claims involving "non-consensual intimate image abuse".

The BBC has reportedly confirmed that a police investigation remains ongoing. However, sources close to the broadcasters maintain that the accusations do not concern anyone involved in this year's programme, meaning that they remain confident the dance competition, including rehearsal sessions, can proceed as normal. A BBC insider revealed there is nothing to indicate the allegation relates to the current Strictly production. They confirmed: "We think the new series will continue as normal."

The fresh Met Police probe comes after a BBC-led investigation into allegations of drug misuse by programme personalities, reports the Mirror.

A Met spokesperson confirmed: "On Friday, August 22, officers arrested a man on suspicion of rape and non-consensual intimate image abuse.

"We urge anyone with any information to come forward to us. The arrest follows a third-party allegation of sexual and drug-related offences." The alleged victim is receiving support from specialist officers.

The arrest comes a year after BBC newsreader Huw Edwards avoided a custodial sentence for possessing indecent images of children.

A BBC representative told the press: "It would not be appropriate to comment on an ongoing police investigation."

Last year, dancer Giovanni Pernice also left the show after allegations of bullying his 2023 partner, Amanda Abbington. While some complaints against him were upheld, he was cleared of the most serious accusations.

Dancer Graziano Di Prima was also dismissed following allegations of misconduct towards his partner, Zara McDermott. Additionally, opera singer Wynne Evans exited the show's tour after being accused of making inappropriate comments.

Express.co.uk have contacted the BBC for comment.