Strictly Controversy: Rumoured Contestant's Dance Background Sparks Fix Debate
A potential contestant for this year's Strictly Come Dancing has ignited debate over whether prior dance experience gives some competitors an unfair advantage.
Actress Sarah Hadland, known for her role in the beloved BBC sitcom Miranda, is rumoured to be joining the show. It has now been revealed that she boasts extensive dance training and a West End theatre background. Hadland began dancing at the tender age of three and attended the prestigious Laine Theatre Arts College in Epsom, where she was a contemporary of Victoria Beckham. She went on to perform in West End productions of Cats and Grease before achieving fame as an actress.
Despite her pedigree, Hadland acknowledges the criticism often levelled at dance-trained contestants and insists she is a "superfan" of the show who understands why some viewers find it frustrating. In 2015, she stated: "I enjoy watching people make a journey, but equally it is nice to see people who have had training and are good. I know people get very irate about it, but you do want them to be a certain level of ability cos it's nice to watch people who are really good."
Hadland further clarified her stance, saying: "I think the dream is what they've got, which is some celebrities who obviously have done a bit of training but so what, they're fabulous to watch, and equally there are people like Jeremy Vine who I will vote for every week because for me he epitomises what dance is, which is someone going out there regardless of their ability and loving it, which he clearly is."
The BBC has reportedly been courting Hadland to join Strictly for a decade, but she has consistently resisted due to her dedication to acting and her deep admiration for the show. Now, however, she seems ready to take on the challenge, despite admitting: "I think I might fall between two stools. It was a long time ago that I danced, so I think I might fall into that category of people thinking I'm better than I actually am."
Hadland's potential participation comes at a time when Strictly is already facing scrutiny over allegations of unfair treatment and unprofessional behaviour. The BBC is currently investigating claims of abuse against dancer Giovanni Pernice, while last year's scandal involving Graziano di Prima's actions towards his partner Zara McDermott further fuelled concerns about the show's culture.
The officially announced contestants for the 20th anniversary season include pop star Toyah Willcox, former Love Island contestant and trained dancer Tasha Ghouri, reality TV personality Pete Wicks, Go Compare opera singer Wynne Evans, JLS star JB Gill, and blind comedian Chris McCausland. The unusual gender split, with six women and nine men, is thought to reflect difficulties in recruiting female stars following the recent controversies.
While Hadland's dance background may raise questions about fairness, her willingness to embrace the challenge and her genuine passion for the show could make her a compelling addition to the Strictly line-up. Ultimately, it will be down to the viewers to decide whether she deserves a chance to dance her way to the coveted Glitterball trophy.
