Strictly format change that would ‘switch up’ cast

The BBC has broken its silence amid reports that Strictly Come Dancing is planning to introduce a switch up week where viewers can chose which pro dancer is paired with a celebrity

Strictly Come Dancing bosses set to shake up format ahead of this year’s series(Image: BBC)

The BBC has hit out at reports that Strictly Come Dancing bosses have decided to change the format the show ahead of this year’s series. The celebrity line-up has been a major talking point among fans for weeks as names including Dani Dyer, Emmerdale star Lewis Cope and former Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison are to take part.

According to reports, a celebrity and their professional dancer will switch up as viewers will be able to vote for who they want to see dance with their favourite pro dancer. But the BBC are adamant that the traditional format of the show will remain the same.

When contacted by the Mirror, a representative told us: “There’s absolutely no truth to this story.” This comes after a source told The Sun: “A switch-up week is a great way to spice up Strictly Come Dancing.

Strictly Come Dancing bosses set to shake up format ahead of this year’s series(Image: PA)

“Fans will be able to vote for which celebrity they want to see dance with their favourite professional dancer.” The TV insider said that the change in format could effect the momentum of the celebrity as their level of comfort with their partner grows week on week.

But this is not the first time the switch up format has been introduced on one of the Strictly spin-offs. Dancer Kai Widdrington, who was previously paired with Angela Rippon, took part in the switch up week while on Dancing With The Stars in Ireland, in 2020.

At the time, the new format was introduced as it was a success in America and Kai was paired with former Big Brother winner turned presenter, Brian Dowling.

Aside from the switch up format, professional dancer Ian Waite has suggested that the BBC consider an all-star version. In a recent interview with the Mirror, he said: “Wouldn’t it be wonderful if there was an all-star version. It can be in April or May as a series with all the top dogs like me and Zoe and, I don’t know, Brendan and Natasha!?”

Ian has hinted that he would like the broadcaster to also consider having former pro dancers return, similar to that of other shows within the franchise.

He went on to say: “But Strictly don’t even bring back pros – apart from Aljaz [Škorjanec]! You don’t find that anywhere else in the – in America, they come and go, same with.”

He added: “I think it gets to be very tiring and intense. Imagine having a year out then coming back so much fresher. I’m sure a lot of the pros would like to have a break!”