Strictly fans furious as spinoff show is ditched – with BBC confirming decision

The race for the Glitterball Trophy is well underway, but it appears eagle-eyed Strictly Come Dancing viewers are fuming about one huge change to the BBC show this year

Strictly Come Dancing fans are up in arms over a significant change to the BBC show, which has even led to the quiet departure of a popular star. The BBC confirmed to OK! that the Strictly Come Dancing: The Official Podcast, a fan favourite since 2018, will not be returning for the 2024 series.

The podcast, hosted by Joe Sugg and producer Kim Winston, offered a unique behind-the-scenes look at the show, featuring exclusive interviews and gossip. However, its absence from BBC Sounds this year has sparked widespread confusion and disappointment among fans. One fan took to social media to ask: "Has anyone found the Strictly podcast this year? Can't find it on Sounds." Others quickly chimed in, with some suggesting that an unofficial podcast, Strictly Speaking, might fill the void.

The lack of an official podcast has also raised questions about the future of its host, Joe Sugg. Fans have expressed their disappointment, with one writing: "Not a patch on Joe Sugg." Another fan commented: "The podcast isn't a patch on the BBC one Joe Sugg and Kim did. There were lots of behind the scenes interviews."

A BBC spokesperson has confirmed the cancellation of the podcast, stating, "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."

They introduced an alternative for fans: "Hosted by superfan Joanna Page and former contestant Natalie Cassidy, they'll share their hot takes on the action from the dancefloor, along with the usual blend of telly recommendations and weekly observations from their households and Off The Telly listeners".

Excitement continues despite the podcast's demise, particularly around Pete Wicks and dance partner Jowita Przystal. After reportedly being spotted in an intimate moment at a backstage drinks party, the couple set tongues wagging during their American Smooth routine nearly locking lips as the lights went down.

Post-performance social media was abuzz, with speculations flying about whether there was an actual kiss. One viewer projected wishes of romance blossoming between the two: "Pete Wicks and Jowita would be the FITTEST couple ever, just saying #StrictlyComeDancing #Strictly," according to X.

"Jowita and pete make me feral i need them to get to the final so i can keep watching them almost kiss #strictly," another fan chimed in. A third viewer remarked: "Obsessed with pete just walking around for two minutes and kissing jowita a few times #Strictly."

Judge Motsi Mabuse also weighed in on the "romantic atmosphere" the pair had crafted during their performance. "I think both of you, you had such a beautiful, flirty, romantic atmosphere, and I believed it was authentic," she expressed post-performance.