Will Authenticity Save ‘Strictly Come dancing’ From a Potential Hiatus?
“Strictly Come Dancing,” the beloved BBC ballroom competition, is gearing up for its 2025 season with a fresh lineup of 15 celebrities. This year’s cast includes a diverse mix of personalities – from a retired rugby player and a popular YouTuber to a “Doctor Who” actress, a former “apprentice” contestant, a “Geordie Shore” icon, and a “Love Island” champion. The launch show airs september 20th, promising the usual sparkle and anticipation.
However, beneath the glitter, a crucial question lingers: can “Strictly” maintain its magic? A long-standing fan believes the show’s future hinges on a return to genuine connection, rather than manufactured drama.
A History of Drama & Scrutiny
“Strictly” isn’t stranger to controversy. Over the years, the show has navigated relationship rumors, professional dancer departures, and various scandals. These incidents, while generating headlines, raise concerns about the show’s authenticity.
Now, Jaz Ampaw-Farr, a keen observer of the show, has voiced a critical perspective. She believes “Strictly” needs to address a core issue to avoid a potential decline in viewership and, ultimately, a hiatus.
The Call for Authenticity: Ditching the “Pretense”
Ampaw-Farr argues that the show’s attempts at manufactured drama are detrimental. Instead of focusing on superficial “diversity ticks” and contrived pairings, she suggests a shift towards prioritizing genuine human connection.
“Strictly is not immune from scandals, people shacking up with each other, or imbalance in relationships,” Ampaw-Farr explained. “Rather of pretending to do diversity ticks and getting the right pair, they need to stop trying to overproduce something that we love as of its humanity and reality.”
she believes the show already possesses all the necessary ingredients for success:
* Passion: The dedication of the contestants and professionals.
* Connection: The bonds formed between partners and with the audience.
* Community: The shared experiance of watching and supporting the dancers.
* Excitement: The thrill of competition and the beauty of ballroom.
“You don’t have to manufacture it,” Ampaw-Farr asserts.”We do understand how things are produced, how they’re marketed. If you are opting into this human first way of being, then we see that and respect that more than if you are trying to brush things under the carpet and pretend.”
What to Expect From the 2025 Launch
The September 20th launch show will reveal the pairings between the 15 celebrities and their professional dance partners. Expect surprise reveals and specially filmed sequences.
Viewers can also look forward to:
* A dazzling group dance featuring all contestants.
* A performance by last year’s champions, Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell.
* A sensational routine from Jessie J.
* Hosting duties by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Ultimately, the success of “Strictly Come Dancing” may depend on its willingness to embrace authenticity. By prioritizing genuine human stories and letting the inherent drama of the competition unfold naturally,the show can secure its future and continue captivating audiences for years to come.
Tune in to “Strictly Come Dancing” on Saturday, September 20th, on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
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