Strictly Come Dancing has stood the test of time, enduring controversies while remaining a beloved BBC show for over two decades. Despite various scandals involving contestants and professional dancers like Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima, who have denied any wrongdoing, the program continues to bring joy to viewers.
As the show’s ratings gradually decline each year and hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman prepare to depart after the current series, it is evident that a significant overhaul will be necessary for the upcoming season. The emergence of “Celebrity Traitors” as a rival show further emphasizes the need for a fresh approach.
The show’s shift to attract younger audiences is evident in its recent casting choices, such as featuring TikTok star George Clarke. This move has significantly boosted engagement on the show’s TikTok page, with George becoming a central figure in its most popular clips.
In a unique collaboration, Britain’s Got Talent winners Diversity will team up with Strictly’s professional dancers, marking a first-time partnership. Additionally, the show plans to bring back notable alumni like Ashley Roberts and Danny Mac to participate in routines during Blackpool week.
While Strictly is exploring new formats and collaborations, there is room for further innovation by drawing inspiration from its American counterpart, Dancing with the Stars. The U.S. show’s success, especially among younger viewers, is attributed to themed episodes and active engagement on platforms like TikTok.
To maintain relevance and appeal to a younger demographic, Strictly’s producers may need to consider selecting a social media influencer as a replacement for departing hosts Tess and Claudia. Embracing changes similar to those on Dancing with the Stars could be key to sustaining the show’s popularity among a diverse audience.