Strictly Come Dancing is reportedly in disarray as big name contestants aren’t willing to join the show for the current cash amounts offered. It comes after bookers reached out to the likes of Michelle Keegan and other household names who turned down the opportunity to take part in the dancing competition.
Sources told The Sun that it was because BBC bosses are offering a “maximum of £60,000” to appear on the show, and agents are worried their clients “won’t benefit” from the exposure.
Other celebs rumoured to have been approached are singer Jessie J and EastEnders actress Tamzin Outhwaite.
One agent told the publication: “There’s a new curse of Strictly — they don’t pay and appearing will do nothing for your career.
“It’s not just the chance of you waltzing off with your partner, now the cash is poor and you waltz off into obscurity. No one wants to do it.”
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Producers have confirmed the show will run at a reduced rate, with half the number of contestants and professional dancers taking to the ballroom this year.
Even the infamous judging panel is set to see a mix-up, as only three of our favourite critics will be on hand to cast their judgement this year.
Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas and Motsi Mabuse will be returning to the panel whereas Strictly stalwart Bruno Tonioli will not appear on the show this year.
The Italian choreographer also has commitments to Dancing With The Stars in America, which he usually takes a brief hiatus from the BBC show for, and has decided to stay stateside due to quarantine restrictions between the UK and the US.
But Craig is confident his fellow judge will make a comeback in the future.
The critic spoke about his co-star’s replacement previously, saying: “They might throw guest judges in for fun.
“Then when everything’s back to normal, Bruno can make his triumphant return!” he told Daily Star.
Express.co.uk have contacted a representative of the show for comment.
Strictly Come Dancing returns later this year.