BBC refers to the police for investigating allegations in Strictly

• The BBC has referred to the police following new allegations of drug use.
• The program has already undergone scrutiny due to allegations of drug use in the past.
• The corporation has implemented new measures to improve participant welfare.

The BBC has referred to the police for investigating new allegations regarding the program Strictly Come Dancing, according to reports. In particular, it concerns claims that two contestants used cocaine.

According to information from The Sun on Sunday, the corporation reported to the Metropolitan Police about the new allegations, the details of which have not been disclosed.

A BBC representative noted that the corporation does not comment on police investigations. Earlier this month, The Sun reported that drug use was being discussed among two contestants on the show, and the corporation enlisted the law firm Pinsent Masons to conduct the investigation.

This program also underwent scrutiny in 2024, when the BBC investigated allegations of drug use and harassment against former professional dancer Giovanni Pernice, involving his former partner on the dance floor, Amanda Abbington.

The corporation partially acknowledged some of the allegations and has implemented new measures to improve welfare, including the introduction of a supervisor who must be present during rehearsals.

Actor James Borthwick, a star of EastEnders, was also suspended from the BBC after a video surfaced where he used abusive language in program footage.

Allegations of drug use were included in a legal document submitted by the law firm Russells on behalf of former contestant Wynne Evans, who was dropped by the BBC following a statement made during the launch of the Strictly tour.

It is known that the BBC often engages external law firms to conduct investigations. A BBC representative previously stated: "We have clear protocols and policies for addressing serious allegations that come to our attention. We always encourage people to come forward to us if they have concerns. Further comments would not be appropriate."

The Metropolitan Police have been asked to comment on the situation.

Tags: Crime