BBC Strictly Come Dancing axes spin-off show leaving fans disappointed

BBC's Strictly Come Dancing has left fans fuming after a quiet change was made to the show that has seen a popular star leave the series

Strictly Come Dancing enthusiasts are left reeling following a shake-up to the BBC programme, which has led to the quiet exit of a well-loved star.

Confirming to OK!, the BBC announced that the popular spin-off Strictly Come Dancing: The Official Podcast, running since 2018, will not be making a comeback for the 2024 series.

Hosted by former Strictly finalist Joe Sugg alongside producer Kim Winston, the podcast became known for its unique peek behind the curtains, brimming with interviews and insider tidbits. Nonetheless, its omission from BBC Sounds this year has left fans bewildered and disheartened.

A puzzled fan took to social media inquiring, "Has anyone found the Strictly podcast this year? Can't find it on Sounds."

The query opened the floodgates as others quickly weighed in, recommending an alternative podcast, Strictly Speaking, to possibly plug the gap, reports the Mirror.

One fan lamented: "Not a patch on Joe Sugg."

Echoing this sentiment, another added: "The podcast isn't a patch on the BBC one Joe Sugg and Kim did. There were lots of behind the scenes interviews."

A spokesperson for the BBC provided clarity on the situation: "In early 2024, we made the decision to end Strictly Come Dancing: The Official Podcast. We're very proud of the last six series and grateful to Joe Sugg, Kim Winston and all the team involved who made it a success. Fans of Strictly can still tune in to Off the Telly, our weekly TV podcast."

Strictly Come Dancing fans are still reeling from the news that the popular podcast is coming to an end. However, the show's creators have announced a new alternative, which will be hosted by superfan Joanna Page and former contestant Natalie Cassidy.

The new podcast will feature their thoughts on the show, as well as their usual blend of TV recommendations and weekly observations.

Meanwhile, the excitement around this year's competition is still building, particularly when it comes to Pete Wicks and his dance partner Jowita Przystal. The pair sparked romance rumours after they were spotted getting close at a backstage drinks party, and their American Smooth routine only added fuel to the fire.

As the lights went down, it looked like they might even share a kiss, leaving viewers speculating on social media.

One fan tweeted: "Pete Wicks and Jowita would be the FITTEST couple ever, just saying #StrictlyComeDancing #Strictly," while another said: "Jowita and pete make me feral i need them to get to the final so i can keep watching them almost kiss #strictly," A third viewer joked: "Obsessed with pete just walking around for two minutes and kissing jowita a few times #Strictly."

Even Judge Motsi Mabuse got in on the action, praising the "romantic atmosphere" that Pete and Jowita had created during their performance. "I think both of you, you had such a beautiful, flirty, romantic atmosphere, and I believed it was authentic," she said.

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