The BBC has launched a legal probe into allegations of cocaine use on Strictly Come Dancing.
One celebrity said it was “well-known on the show that two stars took cocaine” – and now, the corporation has brought in external lawyers to investigate.
Claims had been submitted to the BBC in March through law firm Russells on behalf of celebrity contestant Wynne Evans.
The allegations suggest drug use amongst cast members was common knowledge within the programme.
Claims had been submitted to the BBC in March through law firm Russells on behalf of celebrity contestant Wynne Evans
Sources have now told The Sun that the BBC has received multiple reports regarding drug-taking on the hit dance show.
Russells had laid out serious claims about the programme’s working environment saying it was “well known on the show that two stars took cocaine” and this behaviour was “talked about widely among the cast”.
A spokesman for the broadcaster said: “We have clear protocols and policies in place for dealing with any serious complaint raised with us.
“We would always encourage people to speak to us if they have concerns.
“It would not be appropriate for us to comment further.”
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The BBC ‘has received multiple reports regarding drug-taking on the hit dance show’, sources said
One performer allegedly remarked to a celebrity contestant about another individual: “Have you seen their pupils . . . they’re off their face”.
Sources said conversations about suspected drug use happened openly among participants.
The claims suggest a workplace culture in which substance abuse was not only present but freely discussed between cast members.
A source also told The Sun yesterday: “These claims are extremely serious and should be taken as such.
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‘The idea of the show’s stars discussing drug-taking is deeply disturbing,’ a source said
“Given only last year that the BBC’s director-general promised to clean up Strictly, it seems particularly shocking.
“The idea of the show’s stars discussing drug-taking is deeply disturbing.
“The BBC has known about these allegations for some time, and acknowledged receiving them.
“Now they are taking firm action.”