Strictly scandal – live: Will Bayley makes ‘horrific’ injury claim as BBC makes statement on show’s future

Past Strictly Come Dancing controversies are being resurfaced as the BBC series finds itself embroiled in a scandal – its biggest controversy in 20 years .

Earlier this month, Graziano Di Prima was dropped from the series for mistreating Zara McDermott in the rehearsal room, while other former contestants, including Paralympian Will Bayley , have spoken out about their respective negative experiences.

The latter’s claims dragged It Takes Two host Janette Manrara into the controversy – something the dancer has now responded to. In a new interview, Bayley claimed an instruction made by Manrara, which led to a life-changing injury, occurred as the dancer felt pressure from the show’s producers.

On Tuesday afternoon (23 July), BBC director general Tim Davie apologised over the alleged mistreatment of contestants on the show , as the corporation announced its annual report.

Responding to criticism of the show in recent days, the BBC director general said: “I’m very sorry that anyone has had an experience on Strictly that hasn’t been wholly positive, I think that is something we do reflect on, and I’m sorry about that.”

Another “complaint” made by 2014 contestant Steve Backshall has been shared on social media in the wake of the scandal. The explorer allegedly claimed he was “bullied” by former professional Ola Jordan, whom The Independent has contacted for comment.

Below are latest updates of the furore as it unfolds...