One of the professional dancers on Strictly Come Dancing has reportedly tested positive for coronavirus just 10 days before the first live show of the new series.
The ballroom contest returns to BBC One this Saturday with the annual launch show, which sees the celebrities introduced to their professional partners for the first time.
That episode was pre-recorded on Saturday and according to The Sun, an unnamed pro dancer who was paired up with a celeb subsequently tested positive for COVID.
The dancer in question must now isolate for 10 days, while the celebrity, who has tested negative, looks set to be re-paired with another dancer in time for the first live show on September 25.
"This is proving to be a nightmare for producers, just as they prepare to bring back Strictly for its first full series since the pandemic," a source told the newspaper.
"It means that Strictly viewers are likely to watch the pro paired with their celeb, then they could be separated by the time the first live show begins.
"That also means that the pro in question will probably end up only taking part in group dances throughout the new series, which will be particularly galling."
Earlier this week Strictly boss Sarah James revealed that celebrities who test positive for COVID this year might not be automatically disqualified from the competition.
Neil Wilkes
Follow us on Bluesky or on X/Twitter and like us on Facebook for the latest entertainment news alerts.
Media Mole's Lowest Ever Sky Offer: Get Sky Essential, Sky Stream & Netflix for just £15 a month + £0 upfront fee for 24 months!
Prices may change during this period. Ends March 19, 2025
