Strictly Come Dancing limits practice hours amid abuse allegations

In response to recent abuse allegations from former contestants, the producers of a popular dance competition show are reinstating a weekly limit on practice hours. This cap was initially introduced last year to ensure fairness among participants, who have varying personal commitments. The new rules allow couples to choose their practice hours, provided they do not exceed the total limit, promoting a more equitable environment for all competitors. The decision comes amid serious allegations against a professional dancer, who has been accused of bullying a former contestant during last year's season. The BBC has implemented strict measures, including the presence of chaperones during rehearsals and searching crew members' phones for any references to the allegations. These actions aim to address concerns about a potential cover-up and ensure a transparent investigation. The investigation was prompted by claims from a former contestant, who described her experience as inappropriate and bullying, stating that she endured this behavior for several weeks. The accused dancer has since left the show but maintains his innocence, expecting to be cleared of the allegations. As the new season approaches, the BBC hopes to resolve these issues and restore confidence in the competition format. The changes reflect a commitment to creating a safe and fair environment for all participants, ensuring that the focus remains on the competition itself rather than off-stage controversies.