Strictly Come Dancing Judges' Contracts Set to Expire Amid Host Departures, Raising Concerns for Future
BBC bosses are reportedly anxious as the contracts of head judge Shirley Ballas and her colleagues are up for renewal following the exit of hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly.
The future of the popular BBC show Strictly Come Dancing is facing uncertainty as the contracts of its judging panel are set to expire at the end of the current season. This development comes in the wake of earlier concerns over the departure of long-time hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, with sources close to the show expressing anxieties about potential further cast changes.
Head judge Shirley Ballas, along with Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood, and Anton Du Beke, will be in a position to renegotiate their terms with the BBC. Insiders suggest that Ballas, 66, may be considering not returning for an eleventh series, with speculation mounting that she could relocate to the United States. Such a move would allow her to spend more time with her son, a professional dancer on America's Dancing With The Stars, and her grandchildren.
"The one thing that the BBC knew would keep some continuity this year was that the judges would all be back," a source told the Daily Mail. "They are under contract so that was a guarantee for the bosses and was definitely one less headache for them. But anything could happen. Any of them could walk away now and they will be free agents."
The judges had previously sought an 11 percent pay rise in 2023, which was reportedly rejected by BBC bosses. Instead, they received a raise of between 3 and 5 percent. "If they want more money again, it's unlikely that will happen," a show insider stated. "The BBC can't justify these salaries and now the viewing figures have tanked there's even less of a chance they will get more next time."
Viewing figures for the current series have reportedly dropped by approximately 1.5 million. The show's new presenting team consists of Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe. While Willis is described as a "top pro," Widdicombe has faced criticism for his performance, and Radebe has reportedly struggled with timing.
In a recent episode, contestant Dani Dyer received praise from the judges for her rumba performance, earning 25 points. Ms Ballas commended her timing and movement during the 'icons week' show.