Strictly Come Dancing could see a significant shift in its line-up as reports suggest several of the professional dancers may be facing the axe.
As the 20th season graces our screens, fan favourites have been giving celebrity contestants lessons in ballroom elegance. Despite the footwork finesse on display, a cloud of controversy and scandal has loomed over the latest series, not least due to an investigation into Giovanni Pernice's behaviour behind the scenes.
It is rumoured that as many as five prominent faces, possibly including Neil Jones, Gorka Marquez, and Katya Jones, might not return for the next season, the Mirror reports.
Early eliminations of some veteran dancers this year have fuelled speculation about their future on the show.
Katya's own contentious incidents with current partner Wynne Evans have reportedly vexed the management, casting doubts over her continuing presence in the dance troupe.
In contrast, the latest batch of dancing talents has been capturing hearts and garnering support across social media networks. Notably, Vito Coppola with Sarah Hadland, and Jowita Przystal partnered with Pete Wicks, have dazzled viewers with their performances.
An insider conveyed to The Sun: "The review of the line-up has always been about making a fresh start, and that was always going to be affected by which dancers performed well this series."
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The source added that the current line-up includes a number of "fading" stars who could be easily replaced. They described any potential exits as "harsh", but noted it's part of the show's usual cycle.
The insider added: "Of the five names in the mix almost all of them went out in the first half of the series, which is very much seen as a landmark point for Strictly. It couldn't have come at a worse time for them, because Strictly bosses feel they need to make some major changes, even if that means big names leaving."
Among those rumoured to be on their way out is fan favourite Johannes Radebe, although it appears his departure may be by choice.
The 37-year-old South African dance pro, who joined the show in 2018 and is currently teamed up with Gladiators' Montell Douglas, 38, is reportedly ready to pursue new opportunities.
He's believed to be keen on adapting his life story into a film and has been tipped for a starring role in a major stage musical, which would require him to commit to a seven-month run, ruling out his participation in next year's Strictly.
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