Strictly Come Dancing hasn't even hit our screens yet and already rumours of a feud are circulating.
Television presenter Nick Knowles has sparked speculation after he appeared to snub one fellow contestant on social media. Nick seems to have followed the accounts of everyone taking part in the dance competition this year except for one person.
Eagle-eyed fans of the show spotted that he appears to have left EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick out of his Instagram following spree. The move has caused many to wonder if the perceived snub is down to a hidden issue between the pair.
Bosses have now confirmed that the launch show will air on Saturday, September 14, at 7.20pm over on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. During the launch show, fans will get to find out which celebrity is partnered with each professional dancer.
This year, those hoping to lift the famous Glitterball Trophy are Olympian Sam Quek MBE, JB Gill, Tasha Ghouri, Jamie Borthwick, Nick Knowles, Chris McCausland, Wynne Evans, Toyah Willcox, Dr Punam Krishan, Pete Wicks, Shayne Ward, Sarah Hadland, Tom Dean MBE, Montell Douglas AKA Fire and Paul Merson.
This year, Strictly Come Dancing has faced criticism after failing to sign as many women as they normally would. The upcoming series which will celebrate the show's 20th season has nine male celebs and just six female. Responding to the backlash, Strictly bosses said: "We are really excited about this year's line-up and look forward to the series starting.
"There are many factors that influence the casting process to ensure we have a good mix of celebrities from a broad range of backgrounds. There is no hard and fast rule regarding the gender split on the show and it's never been about ticking boxes." Bosses have promised that this series will be "extra special with even more glitz, glamour and unforgettable performances."
It comes after the programme had been surrounded by scandals following the axing of professional dancers Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima. But it remains clear that the show will avoid reflecting on the recent scandals. In the official trailer which was released earlier today, it doesn't feature any references to the controversy that has surrounded the long-running show.
The highly-publicised scandal includes actor Amanda Abbington having made allegations of "bullying" and "aggressive behaviour" against her former dance partner Giovanni, whom she was partnered with last year. He however has denied "abusive or threatening behaviour". Giovanni won't be part of the new series, like former co-star Graziano, who has left the show amid allegations over his behaviour in the rehearsal room after being partnered with Zara McDermott last year.
Following the claims and an internal investigation, the BBC has put additional procedures into place to focus on the welfare of those taking part. This includes two new dedicated welfare offices as well as extensive training for the production team and the crew on the programme.
The Mirror has reached out to a BBC spokesperson for comment on this story.
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