12 September 2023 , 16:41
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Strictly Come Dancing has been thrown into chaos just days ahead of the 2023 launch as a major security risk has been exposed, according to reports.
There are said to be fears overzealous fans or even those with an ulterior motive to get close to the celebrities and stars of Strictly 2023 could create fake security passes after a crew member posted a photo online that clearly showed what the passes look like. With launch day just four days away, the reported incident is said to have sparked panic behind the scenes of the hit BBC show.
High profile stars including EastEnders actor – and recent National Television Awards winner – Bobby Brazier, Love Island beauty Zara McDermott and veteran broadcaster Angela Rippon are taking part in the 2023 series of Strictly, which is the 21st season of the long-running show. The imminent season, which begins on Saturday night, is expected to run for a mammoth three months, keeping fans entertained all the way through to Christmas.
But the alleged security blunder could now jeopardise how safe the show is as those with bad intentions could feasibly gain access to the studios in Elstree, North London – or even when the show transfers to Blackpool for the traditional ballroom live episode. A source has claimed the crew sharing the pass online could pose a massive security risk.
A security concern has been raised for the 2023 season of Strictly Come Dancing, according to reports (BBC Studios/Ray Burmiston)The source told The Sun: “This was a huge security blunder. Having what the passes look like out there puts the celebrities at massive risk.” They added: “Anyone could copy a pass and get access to the production putting the stars at potential risk of harm. It’s a massive security breach.” Meanwhile, a Strictly Come Dancing spokesperson refused to comment when approached by the Mirror. The representative also declined to comment on whether Strictly passes will be redesigned ahead of the live show on Saturday to minimise risks.
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Saturday night will see celebrities take to the dancefloor for the first time and the public will learn which dance professionals have been matched with which celebrity. While the show has not yet started, Zara and Bobby have been singled out as favourites for the 2023 season.
Reports last month suggested the dance pros were arguing among themselves and trying to influence producers to ensure they got matched with one of the two. A show source said at the time: “All the dancers want to be paired with them because they both have serious potential on the dance floor.
“There’s a battle going on between the pros as they all try to convince bosses to get the best pairing. They know their airtime is largely dependent on how talented their celebrity pairing is, so everything is to play for at this stage.”
The 2023 season of Strictly Come Dancing begins on Saturday night at 6:35pm on BBC One.