The BBC has issued a firm rebuttal to claims it is planning a major relocation for its flagship entertainment show, Strictly Come Dancing. Speculation had swirled that the corporation wanted to move the production from its long-term home at Elstree Studios in Borehamwood to Media City in Salford, Greater Manchester.
Speculation of a Fresh Start
Rumours of a potential move emerged amid a period of significant change for the ballroom show. The speculation followed the confirmed departures of its beloved presenting duo, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, and a series of past scandals involving professional dancers and contestants.
An insider suggested to The Sun that a shift north would be a "seismic" move, primarily for public relations purposes, signalling a desire to draw a line under the show's "troubled time at Elstree." The show has faced various controversies over two decades, including serious allegations of misconduct.
BBC Issues Clear Denial
However, the broadcaster has now categorically shut down these reports. A BBC spokesperson told Metro: ‘There are no plans to move Strictly Come Dancing. Any suggestion otherwise is pure speculation.’
The show has been based at Elstree Studios since 2013, though it does already make an annual pilgrimage north for its special week at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom, a much-loved fixture in the series.
Finale and a New Hosting Era
The focus now shifts to the imminent Grand Finale this Saturday, December 20, which will see the Glitterball Trophy awarded to one of the three final couples: Karen Carney, George Clarke, or Amber Davies. Daly and Winkleman will then return for a final appearance in the Christmas special.
With the hosts' exit, the search for their replacements is underway. It is understood the BBC is trialling around ten potential presenters, testing different pairs for chemistry. Names in the frame reportedly include Bradley Walsh, Alex Jones, and Alan Carr.
Furthermore, viewers have speculated that Zoe Ball could be a contender after she announced her departure from BBC Radio 2.
The 2025 series has been notable for several record-breaking moments. Former footballer Karen Carney became the first player from her sport to reach the final, while EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal set a record for surviving the most dance-offs before her elimination in the semi-final.
