'Premier League' Strictly? It feels more like League One! BBC bosses to hold crisis talks to revive show but admit it's 'too late' to rescue current series
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It was once the show that every BBC executive and 14million viewers were proud to watch.
But now, as the 24th series of Strictly Come Dancing reaches the halfway point, amid tumbling ratings and criticism of its new presenters, bosses are to hold a crisis meeting.
Show insiders have told The Mail on Sunday senior producers are 'bereft' at how Strictly has been received this year but are refusing to give up on it.
One source said BBC bosses know they have a 'Premier League product' that's operating at a 'League One standard'.
The insider told the MoS: 'Nobody wants to give up on Strictly. It's a brilliant show and everyone inside the BBC believes that.
'It needs the jazz and glamour put back into it, and they are determined to do that.
'There have been conversations, but there is to be a proper meeting where ideas will be put forward on how to resurrect it for the viewers.
'Realistically, it's too late for this series but there is no way that it can't be overhauled for next year.'
Strictly Come Dancing hosts Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe
The programme has come under enormous scrutiny this year after the hosting trio replaced the outgoing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman
The programme has come under enormous scrutiny this year after the hosting trio of Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe replaced the outgoing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
While Ms Willis is deemed to be a triumph, Mr Widdicombe and former pro dancer Mr Radebe have been criticised for fluffing their lines and timing missteps.
Last week, the MoS revealed that BBC bosses know that they need to make changes to the presenting line-up.
There is the possibility Mr Radebe could move over to join the judging panel as at least one judge is expected to depart.
As for the celebrity line-up, Strictly insiders have been open about how they struggled to get big stars to do the show.
After 22 years, many of the biggest household names have already taken part.
'You can see a big extra push to get better names but they are harder and harder to get,' said a show source.
They added: 'Since 2004 there have been some amazing line-ups.'
Contestant Jaime Winstone, 41, has revealed her Strictly dances have gathered some famous admirers, including Kelly Osbourne and Cara Delevingne.
Even Taylor Swift has been left impressed, telling her: 'Oh my God, how do you dance like that, dance so free?'
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