NO CHARGES Strictly Come Dancing Star Cleared as Police Drop Rape Investigation

A Strictly Come Dancing star who was arrested on suspicion of rape following a BBC event will face no criminal charges after police concluded there was insufficient evidence.

The unnamed individual was detained on October 13, 2025, prompting an investigation by Hertfordshire Constabulary. However, officers have now confirmed the case has been closed with no further action taken.

In a statement, police said: “There will be no criminal charges brought against an individual arrested in London on Monday, 13 October 2025 on suspicion of rape.

“The man, who had his bail extended on Tuesday, 6 January, to allow further enquiries to take place, will face no further action. Early advice was sought from the Crown Prosecution Service, but detectives determined there was insufficient evidence to bring forward charges.”

The decision brings an end to months of uncertainty surrounding the case, which had added to ongoing scrutiny of the BBC’s flagship dance programme.

A source described the ordeal as deeply distressing, stating the situation had been “a really awful, hellish period for all parties,” adding that the individual now hopes to clear his name fully.

The arrest was one of several controversies linked to the long-running show in recent years. Just months earlier, another male star was arrested on suspicion of rape and alleged non-consensual image offences, with that investigation still ongoing.

The programme has also faced internal challenges. In 2024, allegations made by actress Amanda Abbington against professional dancer Giovanni Pernice led to a costly internal investigation, which upheld some complaints. Meanwhile, dancer Graziano Di Prima was dismissed after admitting misconduct during rehearsals.

In response, the BBC introduced stricter safeguarding measures, including chaperones during training sessions and expanded welfare support for contestants and professionals.

Further scrutiny followed when singer Wynne Evans was removed from a BBC role after making a controversial remark during the show’s tour. He later raised allegations of drug use involving other contestants, which were investigated and ultimately dismissed due to a lack of evidence.

Despite the series of incidents, sources indicate the programme is now moving forward, with officials confident in its future following multiple investigations that found no grounds for further action.

The BBC has not issued additional comment on the latest development.