Strictly Come Dancing 20th anniversary special 'axed'

The ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ 20th anniversary special set to be filmed at Buckingham Palace has reportedly been axed.

The BBC One Latin and ballroom programme – which first debuted in 2004 - was due to celebrate two decades on screens with Queen Camilla, 76, playing host to a regal televised event but the looming outcome of the investigation into the alleged bullying of celebrity contestants at the hands of long-time pro, Giovanni Pernice, 33, is thought to have been the reason behind the cancellation.

An insider told The Sun newspaper: “She found the idea of hosting at the Palace exciting.

“But it was felt by some that the decision to welcome the show might come to be seen in a negative light.”

Giovanni has profusely denied the accusations made against him from former ‘Sherlock’ star Amanda Abbington, 50, who quit last season citing “personal reasons” and ex ‘Love Island’ host Laura Whitmore, 39 - who along with an anonymous star -lodged complaints about his conduct during training sessions.

The BBC and the Palace have not commented on the alleged cancellation.

At the time, Giovanni - who last snagged the Glitterball trophy in 2021 with deaf ‘EastEnders’ star Rose Ayling-Ellis, 29 - defended himself and his teaching methods, which “always come from a place of love”.

He said: "Those who have followed my journey on Strictly Come Dancing over the last decade will know that I am passionate and competitive.

"No one is more ambitious for my dance partners than me.

"I have always striven to help them be the very best dancers they can be. This has always come from a place of love and wanting to win - for me and my dance partners."

The BBC vowed to deal with the allegations with “care, fairness and sensitivity.”