Strictly boss reveals what it’s really like to work on show with poignant regret

BBC Strictly Come Dancing has been a staple of Saturday TV for 20 years - and as the show celebrates its anniversary, a former boss has lifted the lid on life behind the scenes

It's been a whole two decades since Strictly Come Dancing first waltzed onto our TV screens, captivating the nation with a whirlwind of eight celebrity and professional partnerships. "When it started, there was nothing else like it," says Alison Maloney, author of the official Strictly annuals from 2008, fondly reminiscing on the show's unique charm. "It brought this sprinkle of glitz and glamour to Saturday nights, and just made people smile. Whether it's good dancing or bad dancing, it's a show that makes you feel happy, and even the sound of the theme tune cheers you up."

The BBC's dazzling juggernaut has seen over 200 celebs and 62 pros step into the limelight, drawing in crowds of up to 12 million viewers weekly. In a glittering accolade, in 2010, Guinness World Records hailed Strictly as the globe's most successful reality TV format, and the franchise now boasts international versions like Dancing With The Stars across more than 60 countries. Back at home, its legacy includes It Takes Two, 19 annual festive specials, 18 charity shows, and sensational live tour extravaganzas that have audiences rushing for tickets. Not to mention, Strictly's trophy cabinet shines brightly with three Best Entertainment BAFTAs, and hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly receiving their most recent nod this May.

The glittering spectacle of Strictly Come Dancing finds its origins in the BBC's classic show Come Dancing, which charmed viewers with its non-celebrity ballroom blitz from 1949 until 1998. The influence of the iconic film Strictly Ballroom further flavoured the concept, with the inaugural five series brought to life by executive producer Karen Smith. She said, "I remember thinking, if we get this right, it could be huge a proper Saturday night TV show that could really be loved by everyone aged eight to 80," and also shared her vision for the shows broad appeal: "The beauty of an entertainment show like Strictly is that it speaks a universal language. There is no barrier to access children, parents and grandparents can all sit down and watch it, and experience that heart and warmth and humour."

After launching in May 2004 before moving to a pre-Christmas slot, Strictly has become a staple in British households, as noted by Alison, "It's getting colder, the evenings are darker, and it leads perfectly up to Christmas," and she described the programme as a beacon of joy: "You're battening down the hatches and you've got this lovely, joyous thing in your living room for the whole family to enjoy together."

The dance floor drama of Strictly has consistently delivered performances bursting with expertise, heartfelt moments and comedic genius. Andrea Hamilton, a former executive producer, said, "It's pure, unadulterated escapism," and added, "People really celebrate each other on the show, which feels good and is needed more than ever these days. There's also a trust there you know nothing too saucy will be shown, and it won't be embarrassing for Nan to watch it with her eight-year-old granddaughter. Yes, there are cheeky jokes, but it's just a twinkle in the eye, never offensive."

Between 2012 and 2013, Andrea was at the helm of the popular series and took charge of the festive specials and The Peoples Strictly For Comic Relief. Reflecting on the challenges she faced, Andrea explained, "You're managing all the celebrities, dancers, judges and presenters, as well as the group routines. On show days, there's a team of more than 100 people, so it's a huge operation."

During her stint on the programme, Andrea had the fortune to work with broadcasting icon Sir Bruce Forsyth in what would be his final season presenting. His buoyant charm, encapsulated in his catchphrase "Nice to see you, to see you nice! " and infamous "thinker" pose, graced our screens for 11 seasons alongside Tess Daly. Sir Bruce bowed out from the live shows in 2013, and following some health struggles, he passed away in August 2017 at 89.

Andrea reflects fondly on her time with Bruce, sharing, "He was absolutely wonderful, and although he'd been in showbiz for 50 years, he was still so humble. He wanted everyone to enjoy his jokes and really cared whether he got a laugh in rehearsals. The audience would be sitting around for hours, but he'd come out and tell a few jokes, have a chat and do a little dance. People loved it and felt so privileged to have that almost one-on-one experience with him. No other host will do that nowadays, sadly."

Throughout the years since its opening season, which saw TV presenter Natasha Kaplinsky and dance partner Brendan Cole secure the glitterball trophy, Strictly has seen a dazzling list of champions, including McFly drummer Harry Judd, stunner Abbey Clancy, funny man Bill Bailey, beloved Caroline Flack, and last year's winner, soap star Ellie Leach from Coronation Street.

Anticipation is already high for this year's showstopper series, with a line-up that promises a hefty dose of sparkle. Getting ready to hit the dance floor are England hockey sensation Sam Quek, former TOWIE hunk Pete Wicks, and JLS heartthrob JB Gill.

Competing on Strictly Come Dancing has been a game-changer for many stars, leading them to glittering new opportunities. Winners like Tom Chambers and Kara Tointon from 2008 and 2010 have found success on the West End stage, while 2009's runner-up Ricky Whittle made it big in Hollywood. "Strictly really does change lives," Alison remarked. "Back in the day, Jill Halfpenny went straight from winning Strictly to starring in Chicago. Even non-winners often go into stage roles or on the live tours, which they love because there's no risk of elimination."

However, the show has recently been marred by controversy due to accusations against professional dancers Graziano Di Prima and Giovanni Pernice. Last year, Graziano's representative confirmed he accidentally kicked his celebrity partner Zara McDermott during practice, and Giovanni faced claims from his dance partner Amanda Abbington that he was "cruel and mean", allegations he has refuted. Both dancers have since departed from the series. In light of these events, the BBC has emphasised that the welfare of everyone involved in the show is paramount, asserting its commitment to a positive and professional working environment.

Alison revealed the audience's affection for the less experienced contestants, saying: "Viewers always like to champion the underdog," and adding: "We want to see people grow in confidence, especially if they've never danced before. It's like with Krishnan Guru-Murthy last year he didn't set out to win, he just really wanted to be there, and we loved watching him have a brilliant time."

While the emotional rollercoaster of the celebrities' progress captures viewers, it's the dazzling set pieces and costume brilliance that enrich Strictly's viewing spectacle. Andrea, current MD of ModestTV, pointed out the show's extraordinary visual feast, stating: "It's hypnotic to see all the incredible dresses and the different colours and styles. The costume department is brilliant, and so is the make-up team. They work tirelessly and go the extra mile to make sure it's all perfect."

Beyond the glitz, the educational facet of Strictly shines through as well. Andrea highlighted this aspect, saying: "One of the joys of the show is that viewers become mini experts," and explaining: "People may not have previously known the difference between a waltz and a Viennese waltz, or a jive and the cha cha, but we pick up so much from the judges, who take us along with them."