Strictly star arrested on suspicion of rape as Met Police launch investigation

A male Strictly Come Dancing star is being questioned by police over a rape allegation and another involving ‘non-consensual intimate image abuse’

Strictly Come Dancing has been hit by another scandal after one of its stars was arrested on suspicion of rape. The Met Police confirmed to The Sun that the man was also being questioned over alleged non-consensual intimate image abuse.

It follows a BBC inquiry into the show after concerns over drug abuse were raised.

A Met Police spokesperson told the publication: “On Friday, August 22, officers arrested a man on suspicion of rape and non-consensual intimate image abuse.

“This is a joint investigation and while the investigation is in its early stages, we urge anyone with any information to come forward to us.

“The arrest follows a third party allegation of sexual and drug-related offences. Enquiries are ongoing.”

They added that the alleged rape victim is being supported by specialist officers.

The BBC said: “It would not be appropriate to comment on an ongoing police investigation.”

The allegation is the latest to hit the BBC in recent years, with a number related to Strictly.

Giovanni Pernice was dropped from the show after an investigation prompted by Amanda Abbington.

She brought forward a number of complaints about the Italian pro’s teaching methods.

Giovanni quit the show and denied all of the accusations against him.

Months later, Graziano Di Prima exited the show after it emerged he had kicked his celebrity partner Zara McDermott during training.

He said afterwards that he “deeply regretted his actions”.

Last year’s star Wynne Evans stepped back form his BBC radio job after he was accused of making a sexualised comment about Janette Manrara during a Strictly photo call.

He denied it but apologised.

Then this year, allegations of drug use among the pros were reported, with an investigation into two stars abusing cocaine launched.

A source said: “This is clearly a huge concern to everyone connected to Strictly Come Dancing and the BBC, which is why it’s being treated very seriously.

“The BBC and its external lawyers are in contact with the police over the rape allegation, as well as the drugs claims. Both matters are being investigated by separate detectives.

“It’s far from an ideal situation, particularly as it’s just a few weeks until the new series starts, but this is a serious criminal investigation.”