BBC gives verdict on Strictly after star arrested on suspicion of rape

The latest development follows a number of scandals involving the show in recent years.

BBC sources have insisted the new series of Strictly Come Dancing will go ahead as planned, despite one of its stars being arrested on suspicion of rape.

The male suspect, who is not being named for legal reasons, is also being questioned by police regarding allegations of "non-consensual intimate image abuse".

The broadcaster told our sister title the Mirror that a police investigation is ongoing.

However, sources have also insisted the allegations do not involve anybody due to appear on this year's series, so they are confident the show, including training, can continue.

The new investigation, led by the Metropolitan Police, follows an inquiry by the BBC into claims of drug abuse by stars on the show.

A spokesperson for the force said: “On Friday, August 22, officers arrested a man on suspicion of rape and non-consensual intimate image abuse.

“We urge anyone with any information to come forward to us. The arrest follows a third party ­allegation of sexual and drug-related offences.”

The alleged victim is being supported by specialist officers. The revelation is one of the most significant crises faced by the BBC since newsreader Huw Edwards avoided a prison sentence last year for possession of indecent images of children.

However, Strictly has faced its own scandals, including accusations of bullying, harassment and misconduct by professional dancers Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima against their celebrity partners. This year, Welsh opera singer Wynne Evans left the show's tour following accusations of inappropriate comments.

A BBC spokesperson told The Mirror of the recent development: “It would not be appropriate to comment on an ongoing police investigation.”

Another source from the corporation said there is no evidence suggesting the allegation is related to the upcoming series. They added: "We think the new series will continue as normal."

If you've been the victim of sexual assault, you can access help and resources via www.rapecrisis.org.uk or calling the national telephone helpline on 0808 802 9999.