Posted by The new series of Strictly Come Dancing is reportedly close to being axed after two of the biggest names pulled out after their fees were cut.
Sharon Osbourne and Richard Madeley are alleged to have quit the series after finding out their pay had been slashed, reports the Daily Mirror.
BBC1 boss Jay Hunt asked producers to cut costs on this year’s show as part of wider savings across the corporation.
Strictly’s presenter Bruce Forsyth is believed to have taken a £160,000 pay cut, while some of the show’s professional dancers are said to be refusing to sign their new contracts because of their reduced salaries.
A programme insider told the paper: “Jay has no idea how to finesse a situation, especially with talent, and there’s a lot of disquiet.
“Sharon is a serious player in America’s Got Talent but what the BBC finally offered was ridiculous.”
The new series of Strictly is already one of the most talked about in the show’s history following the decision to axe Arlene Phillips from the judging panel in favour of former winner Alesha Dixon.
Other names linked to this year’s show include ex-EastEnder Natalie Cassidy and Reece Dinsdale, who plays Gail’s lover Joe in Coronation Street.
Are you disappointed at the news that Sharon and Richard won’t be appearing on Strictly?
This is typical of the BBC. Those corporate fat-cats milking off huge sums, perks & bonuses from our compulsary licence money are the scurge and, they now cut wages from those in the BBC.
As for Sharon & Richard, they’re just as bad when it comes to greed, greed, greed.
There are plenty of other people that should be given the chance.