Stars are flocking to sign up for this year’s Strictly Come Dancing in the hope of a decent payday amid showbiz cancellations – despite worries about how it will be filmed.
Bosses have secured around half of the 15 celebs required, with many only available because TV, music and theatre work has been postponed or axed.
An insider revealed: “We’ve signed up people we’ve been after for absolutely ages, who have said they were keen but were always tied up with other work.
“Lots are saying yes who have said no before, simply because they’ve actually got the time to fit it in their schedules.”
But there is still a chance the hit BBC ballroom series will be vetoed if the lockdown is not relaxed by the autumn.
Producers believe the show can only go ahead this year if the Government relaxes rules allowing people to visit hairdressers and dentists – which they think is on a par with performing a waltz, cha-cha or rumba with a partner.
The source said: “If we get to September and we’re not allowed to have a haircut or go to the dentist, then we’ve got a real problem.”
Bosses remain hopeful the live series will go ahead, but with a small crew and probably no studio audience.
The aim is to have presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman appearing in the Elstree studio alongside contestants, judges and the pro dancers.
Producers are seeing how international versions of the show are working.
One isolating pair in Australia filmed themselves dancing on a rooftop.
Rumours that the UK stars would live in isolation with dance partners and get double pay have been dismissed.
Made in Chelsea’s Jamie Laing, who pulled out last year with a foot injury, is certain to take part.
Rumoured to be joining him are chat host Alan Carr, actress Michelle Keegan, DJ Chris Evans and singer Stacey Solomon.
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