Strictly's 20th anniversary plans 'scrapped' as Giovanni Pernice probe continues
The BBC were planning to hold part of the Strictly Come Dancing 20th anniversary special at London's Buckingham Palace.
A Strictly Come Dancing 20th anniversary special plan has reportedly been scrapped. The BBC programme is marking 20 years on screen later this year and were hoping to film in London's Buckingham Palace as part of the celebration.
Despite King Charles and Queen Camilla being huge fans of the show, The Sun has claimed the idea has been discarded due to "logistical problems" and "diary clashes".
The BBC's investigation into Giovanni Pernice is believed to be a factor in the decision. A source told the publication: '[Queen Camilla] found the idea of hosting at the Palace exciting. But it was felt by some that the decision to welcome the show might come to be seen in a negative light.'
Giovanni, 33, has denied any allegations of threatening behaviour made by three of his former partners, including Amanda Abbington.
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It was previously revealed that an episode during the 20th anniversary of Strictly would be held in the ballroom of the central London residence, with extended planning already behind the idea.
"There have been talks going on for some time now. Camilla loves Strictly, so what a dream this is for her. It has been about getting the timing right and 2024 is the year," a source told The Mail on Sunday. "Strictly started in 2004 so it is two decades. There is huge excitement about this happening – it is going to be quite a night."
The insider added: "The Queen has been a long-standing fan of the show, so it feels like a perfect fusion. There has already been so much thought that has gone into this, the room has been selected and it will be absolutely stunning."
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One Strictly star who will be filming inside the palace is Anton Du Beke, as he is set to join Lorraine Kelly for a special edition of her show on Wednesday (July 10).
Lorraine, 64, will be taking viewers inside the London landmark, giving them a tour and a first look at the room behind the iconic balcony in the newly opened East Wing.
She said: "What an incredible opportunity to give our viewers at home a peek behind the scenes at Buckingham Palace - especially the very first look at the room behind the most famous balcony in the world. I also have some fantastic guests joining me to give us the stories, secrets and insights into the history of this iconic palace."
As well as Anton, 57, Lorraine will be joined by a number of other guests, including Gyles Brandreth, Tyler West and Ellie Simmonds.
