Conversations over the tightening of protocols on ABC’s Dancing with the Stars are taking place in the wake of this week’s Strictly Come Dancing scandal, Deadline has been told.
A spokesman for BBC Studios said “new measures being introduced in the UK” will contribute to an “ongoing dialogue” around international versions of the show, of which there are dozens including in the States. While there are strong safeguarding processes already in place on Dancing with the Stars U.S., we understand additional measures could be implemented.
The new Strictly protocols were unveiled three days ago after a second dancer, Graziano Di Prima, exited the show over allegations of inappropriate behavior towards a partner. All future Strictly rehearsals will now be policed by a member of production staff. Meanwhile, two new dedicated welfare producers will be brought in and there will be additional training for the production team and crew.
The BBC Studios spokesman said “all territories regularly share, and deploy, learnings and best practices via BBC Studios’ global team of flying producers.”
“The new measures being introduced in the UK on Strictly Come Dancing will contribute to this ongoing dialogue and we’ll continue to work with local broadcasters to ensure that stringent contributor welfare processes are at the heart of all versions of the show,” he added.
The Strictly scandal is the talk of the UK TV production community and has generated tabloid headlines for days.
Yesterday, fired dancer Di Prima admitted kicking partner Zara McDermott. Di Prima’s admission came after another popular dancer, Giovanni Pernice, left the show following allegations by Sherlock star Amanda Abbington, who said she suffered PTSD after training with him. Unlike Di Prima, Pernice denies all reports of inappropriate behavior, and the BBC’s investigation is continuing. The Sun reported Tuesday that a third professional dancer, who is no longer on the show, is being probed.
Produced by BBC Studios in the U.S. and simulcast on ABC and Disney+, Dancing with the Stars has been airing since 2005, only one year less than Strictly.
There are around 60 versions worldwide in territories such as France, Germany and Australia. Most air at the same time as the UK and U.S. versions from September while some are shown through the fall.