Strictly Come Dancing will not go ahead in 2020 if the UK enters another full lockdown, reports have claimed.
The popular dance show is due to return this month with a slightly shorter season due to restrictions around the coronavirus pandemic.
However, The Sun has reported that should the country introduce strict lockdown measures for a second time to stop the spread of the disease, bosses have agreed to cancel the show for this year.
“The BBC are fully prepared to axe this series of Strictly if a full lockdown happens,” a source told the publication.
“They couldn’t even delay the show until early next year because of a number of issues, including them being unable to use their usual studios. While everyone is hopeful it won’t happen, preparations have been made if it does.”
They also claimed that should a local lockdown happen in London, where Strictly is filmed in Elstree, the show’s bosses would ask for “special dispensation” to continue.
The Independent has contacted the BBC for comment.
The show is currently scheduled to go ahead with a limited nine-week run beginning with the launch show on 17 October.
A number of changes have been made to accommodate safety measures, including the judges sitting in their own booths and the audience sat in households. Bruno Tonioli will also not appear on the show as a regular judge due to travel restrictions.
Last week Strictly 2020 contestant HRVY, real name Harvey Cantwell, tested positive for the virus.
The 21-year-old YouTuber stated that he was self-isolating in order to not miss the launch show or dance rehearsals.
