BBC bosses are reportedly struggling to sign contestants for Strictly Come Dancing 2018 – as big-name stars are turning the show down due to its ‘curse’.
As one of the biggest shows on television, with ratings in excess of 10million viewers, you’d think Strictly would have celebrities desperate to be involved.
However, according to The Sun, producers aren’t anywhere near close to filling places for the new series.
“For once, Strictly is not fully-booked and bosses are in a bit of a panic,” a source revealed.
“Usually by now all the dancers know whether they have partners or not – but this year they’re in the dark.”
“People in the Strictly team are used to a well-oiled machine, but some are raising eyebrows at the lack of talent bookings confirmed.”
There are at least two reasons behind the shortage in contestants.
The biggest names are apparently refusing to take part because they fear the so-called ‘Strictly curse’ could destroy their relationships.
Meanwhile, chiefs are said to have banned reality stars after growing bored of them using Strictly for self-promotion.
The Beeb is now facing a race against time to secure enough names to grace the dancefloor.
A red-carpet event will be held on Monday 27th August, when the new line-up will be officially revealed.
The launch show will then be taped a few days later before Strictly returns to our screens in September.
Audience tickets for both events are now available on the BBC website.
Despite the doom and gloom, the rumour mill has been throwing out plenty potential candidates.
A string of telly favourites including Rylan Clark-Neal, Scarlett Moffatt, Anneka Rice, Maya Jama and Chris Kamara have been linked to the show.
Union J singer Josh Cuthbert could also take part following his appearance on Celebrity MasterChef.
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