Strictly Come Dancing's future put on hold as senior producer on maternity leave

Strictly Come Dancing 2024 has been one of the most awaited seasons of the show after all the drama last year. Giovanni Pernice's scandal involving his former dance partners still hovers like a black cloud over Strictly’s ground and judge Shirley Ballas also hinted that she may not be a part of the show for long. Amidst this, it has been reported that all decisions about and regarding Strictly have been put on hold as a key member of the show is on maternity leave.

All major decisions for 2024 put on hold for now

Historically, Strictly bosses are ready with the line-up of professional dancers at this time of the year. However, the line-up has been put on hold and it’s nothing to do with Giovanni’s scandal. Rather the hold comes as executive producer Sarah James is on maternity leave.

A TV insider revealed there’s ‘chaos’ surrounding this year's show and told MailOnline:

Usually, there would be a decision made on the professional dancers by now but because the boss is off, and she is held in such high regard, everything has been put on hold.

The source added that ‘no decisions are made’ without Sarah’s approval and added:

It isn’t really okay to expect someone on maternity leave to get involved in work matters when they are off.

The delay particularly is nerve-racking for Giovanni Pernice who is understood to be protected by BBC bosses.

Will Giovanni Pernice be on the Strictly 2024?

After Amanda Abbington complained about Giovanni, it was reported earlier this month that four of his former partners have teamed up together against him. However, show bosses are still unsure if they want to give him a break for this season as he remains ‘much loved by head honchos,’ reports The Sun.

A source said:

Bosses are undecided about whether or not they will give Gio a partner, just to take the heat off him.

Their cause of concern remains that finding a celeb partner for Giovanni would be a task after reports on his ‘perfectionist’ behaviour.

Read More:

⋙ Strictly Come Dancing’s Giovanni Pernice: A source reveals he is dating again, who is Molly Brown?

⋙ Strictly’s Giovanni Pernice and Amanda Abbington’s feud reason revealed: ‘He’s full of himself’

⋙ Elizabeth Hurley opens up about son Damian directing her scenes on upcoming film Strictly Confidential

Sources Used:

Daily Mail: Giovanni Pernice faces agonising wait on his Strictly Come Dancing future

The Sun: Strictly ‘in chaos’ as Giovanni Pernice ‘faces agonising wait’ about future on show after Amanda Abbington complaint