Former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Zara McDermott has some advice for the new cast member, Tasha Ghouri. Both Zara and Tasha gained fame through the ITV reality show Love Island. Tasha is eager to get started on Strictly, although she hasn’t been paired with a partner yet.
Zara’s time on the show was marred by mistreatment from her professional dance partner Graziano Di Prima, who was later fired for his behavior. Despite this unpleasant experience, Zara is excited to see her friends Pete Wicks and Tasha take on the dancefloor this season.
When Tasha expressed her excitement about joining the show on Instagram, Zara responded with encouraging words and a practical tip to stock up on Compeed gel plasters. Compeed is a brand that helps with foot issues like blisters and cracked heels, which are common during intense dance practice.
In other news, the upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing will feature the fewest female celebrities in the show’s history. This has raised concerns that recent bullying scandals may have deterred women from participating. The current lineup includes Gladiators star Fire, actress Sarah Hadland, Tasha Ghouri, singer Toyah Willcox, Dr. Punam Krishnan, and Olympian Sam Quek among the female contestants.
There are nine male celebrities participating in the show, making it a challenge for women to advance to the final stages of the competition. The controversy surrounding bullying allegations involving male professional dancers and their female partners has likely influenced the recruitment process for this season.
The ongoing scandal surrounding Strictly Come Dancing has seen several key developments, including the resignation of Giovanni Pernice after complaints from former partners like Amanda Abbington, Laura Whitmore, and Ranvir Singh. Graziano Di Prima was also dismissed from the show for gross misconduct, prompting the implementation of new duty of care protocols.
Despite the challenges and controversies, the professional cast has begun rehearsals for the upcoming season. The show’s producers have emphasized the importance of addressing any issues raised by participants and ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all involved.
In light of the recent events and concerns surrounding the show, it is crucial for Strictly Come Dancing to prioritize the well-being and safety of its contestants and staff. Transparency, accountability, and a commitment to addressing any misconduct are essential to maintaining the integrity and reputation of the beloved dance competition.