BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, now in its 2025 series, is embroiled in controversy as fans on X accuse producers of rigging pairings to favor certain celebrities.
The row centers on dancer pairings, with claims that high-profile stars like Dani Dyer were matched with top professionals like Vito Coppola to boost their chances.
Viewer Sarah Jenkins tweeted, 'It’s obvious they’re setting up Dani for the final.
Unfair on others!' The show, which launched September 13, features 15 celebrities, including Jamie Laing and Tasha Ghouri.
Producers deny favoritism, stating pairings consider height, chemistry, and skill balance.
A BBC spokesperson said, 'We aim for fairness and entertainment.' Last year’s bullying allegations involving Giovanni Pernice linger, adding scrutiny.
Despite strong ratings—7.2 million watched the opener—fan discontent threatens the show’s feel-good reputation.
Pros like Amy Dowden, returning post-cancer, urge focus on the dancing.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions in reality TV’s competitive format.
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