Imagine walking into a room full of skeptical senior newspaper executives and announcing that you’ve just seen a show that’s going to revolutionize Saturday night TV.

That’s exactly what happened to me twenty years ago.

I had just watched a ballroom dancing competition where celebrities paired with professional dancers to vie for a glitterball trophy.

I was excited about the sequins, makeup, live music, and glamorous gowns. But instead of shared enthusiasm, I was met with blank stares.

Even the promise of Bruce Forsyth’s iconic “Keeeep dancing!” didn’t seem to make a dent.

Despite the initial skepticism, I was convinced that *Strictly Come Dancing* would be a hit.

My review in the Mail was titled, “Why Come Dancing has the X-Factor,” and I praised the show for being a breath of fresh air amidst the often harsh reality TV landscape.

I even dared to suggest that the show offered a comforting throwback to a simpler time, where roles were clear-cut, and the joy of dancing was pure and untainted.

Unlike *The X Factor,* which could be brutal in its treatment of contestants, *Strictly* was kind and gentle, a show that celebrated the art of dance without malice.

Fast forward to today, and the show has seen significant changes, not all of them positive.

The original, benevolent panel of judges has been replaced by a more critical and demanding lineup.

What was once a joyful celebration of dance has sometimes felt like a rigorous test of ballroom techniques. Even the professional dancers have risen to stardom, occasionally overshadowing the celebrities they partner with.

This evolution has led to a more competitive atmosphere, with the pros sometimes displaying an almost ruthless determination to win.

Controversies and Scandals

The show’s journey hasn’t been without controversy. Recent allegations of bullying and abusive behavior have cast a shadow over *Strictly.*

Amanda Abbington’s accusations against her dance partner Giovanni Pernice have stirred up a storm, leading to a legal battle and extensive media coverage. The incident has raised serious questions about the show’s culture and the treatment of its participants.

The BBC’s handling of these issues, including its commitment to a safe and respectful environment, has come under scrutiny.

The Changing Face of Strictly

As the years have passed, *Strictly* has adapted to changing times, becoming more inclusive and diverse.

While this shift has been celebrated, it has also brought challenges.

The inclusion of professional dancers as celebrity contestants has sparked debates about fairness. The case of Layton Williams, a talented professional dancer who competed as a celebrity, highlighted these concerns. Despite his incredible talent and compelling backstory, many felt that his inclusion disrupted the show’s original premise of showcasing amateur dancers.

A Tarnished Legacy?

As *Strictly Come Dancing* marks its 20th anniversary, the show faces a critical juncture. The recent controversies and the evolving nature of the competition have left some fans disillusioned.

The magic of the early days, when Bruce Forsyth’s warm greeting made viewers feel welcome, seems like a distant memory.

While the future of *Strictly* remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the show that once brought so much joy has been profoundly changed. Whether it can reclaim its former glory remains to be seen, but for many, the line has already been crossed.

TDPel Media

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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