Former Strictly judge makes plea to BBC bosses and says scandal will 'never be fully behind them'

Former judge has waded into the scandal surrounding the BBC show.

The 81-year-old dancing legend and expert was an OG Strictly judge alongside Len Goodman, and current judge Craig Revel Horwood. She held the position for four years, from 2004 to 2008, before being replaced by Alesha Dixon in 2009.

But Arlene has warned that producers and viewers need to "turn down the pressure" to make the show fun again. It comes after the Giovanni Pernice and Amanda Abbington 'bullying' scandal prompted calls for Strictly to be axed after last year's series.

Though it has returned this year, the results of the BBC probe into Giovanni's conduct cast a shadow over its usual glitz. Though only six of Sherlock and Mr Selfridge star Amanda's complaints were upheld - and all the most serious ones dismissed - Arlene said bosses need to bring the joy back as the show celebrates its 20th anniversary.

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Speaking at the Mirror's , she said: "I never think that it is behind them, nobody knows what will happen in the future, but I hope that people get joy out of the show because it has got so huge.

"There is so much riding on the professionals, because they can now have a life changing career in other ways away from Strictly. So turn down the pressure, bring back the love and the joy and Strictly will run forever."

Dame Arlene was among the stars attending the awards show at Grosvenor House Hotel in London on Monday night, where she reflected on her Strictly past. The star shared her throughs on fellow judge Craig - who continues to give scores on Strictly. She said: "He's softened a little," before joking: "Has he still got the bite? Oh yes, he can be a b****!"

It's been reported that although Giovanni quit the show this year, he will still appear in a special episode celebrating the 20th anniversary, as he is still one of the show's longest running pro dancers, having appeared on it for nine years. The look back is set to feature "iconic performances and familiar faces past and present".

According to reports, Giovanni, 34, could be seen in old footage from 2021 when he was partnered with actress Rose - the first deaf contestant to appear on the show. Together, they want on to win the Glitterball Trophy and the prize for the most memorable TV moment that year.

A source told : “Giovanni made history when he won with Rose so footage from their emotional silent performance is set to feature.” The have reached out to the BBC for comment.

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