Strictly Come Dancing producers have reportedly threatened contestants with expulsion from the competition if they become romantically involved with another contestant or pro dancer.
The so-called "Curse of Strictly" has struck multiple times in the past, most notably in 2018 when comedian Seann Walsh was pictured kissing his pro partner Katya Jones, who was at the time married to fellow pro dancer Neil Jones.
Last year contestants HRVY and Maisie Smith sparked speculation that they had starting dating, despite strict coronavirus rules being in place at the time, and this year producers are said to be taking a hard line.
"Although the pandemic has eased since last year's series, the BBC aren't taking any chances," a source told The Sun.
"This kissing ban is likely to be part of a package of measures introduced by producers to make the show as safe as possible.
"They want to minimise the risk of any bombshells, particularly as a studio audience is being brought back into the studio this year."
The new series starts on BBC One later this month with contestants including Adam Peaty, Nina Wadia and Tom Fletcher.
Neil Wilkes
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