STRICTLY fans have demanded a major format shake-up as the show returned for its 20th series.
The hit BBC series made a triumphant comeback after being shrouded in complaints and a bullying investigation this year.
Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke once again took their seats on the judging panel.
And the likes of Towie star Pete Wicks, Love Island’s Tasha Ghouri and presenter Nick Knowles set the studio alight in a group dance at the end of the episode.
They are part of a 15-strong line-up who will compete to win the infamous Glitterball trophy as the contest celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.
Though the majority of viewers rejoiced as the show opened with a 90s inspired intro followed by a dance to mark Amy Dowden’s return, others felt that it wasn’t as good as it had been in years gone by.
One suggested the celebrity cast should be cut down, and others demanded that bosses splash more money on the line-up.
They said: “Original #Strictly only had 8 contestants, 15 far too many, no reason not to have a shorter series run as no opposition! Still be v popular.”
Another moaned: “The budget was obviously cut when it came to #Strictly celebrities this year. The average panto has a better known cast!”
One more suggested “Have they slashed the budget for #Strictly this year? That intro was just one big green screen”.
Fans speculated that these concerns may have contributed to a more challenging environment for attracting female competitors, potentially leading to fewer women stepping onto the dancefloor this series.
The results of an internal investigation have yet to be announced following the departure of Graziano Di Prima and Giovanni Pernice.
BBC director Tim Davie has expressed regret over the scandal, stating, “I’m very sorry that anyone has had an experience on Strictly that hasn’t been wholly positive.”
Despite the controversies, the hit BBC show continues to enjoy strong public support, having won the National Television Award for Talent Show of the Year on Wednesday, marking its ninth consecutive win in the category.
