‘Strictly Come Dancing’ bosses could scrap music performances due to the coronavirus pandemic.
BBC producers are currently figuring out how to safely bring back the celebrity Latin and ballroom competition later this year, and it is thought they may ditch the usual live appearances by top artists.
An insider told The Sun newspaper’s Bizarre TV column: "It’s seemingly impossible at this stage to recreate safely what has been a norm in previous years.
"Although live music from acts is still being considered, it’s unlikely to include any big international stars and could be filmed away from the studio because of safety concerns.
"In early meetings about the show when the lockdown was nationwide, the idea of having live musicians performing was totally thrown out.
"But now restrictions have lifted slightly, the ‘Strictly’ team are trying to be inventive about how they could make it happen."
In the past, the likes of Taylor Swift and Lewis Capaldi have performed while the professionals take to the dance floor, but all of this year’s group routines have been pre-recorded.
The source added: "Given the current restrictions, it’s a planning nightmare. Dave Arch and his band will be returning to the show but their roles will be modified to ensure they can perform safely.
"Rehearsals will start next month for them but it’s still not known what shape their input will take.
"Everyone is hoping they will be able to play live in the studio. But as with everything, it’s totally up in the air."
As part of the show’s new measures, the pro dancers are being asked to go into quarantine ahead of this year’s series.
Dancer Oti Mabuse recently said: "I think with everything happening, we’ve had to adjust and adapt these interesting times.
"We will all be quarantining because I think for most productions and most shows health safety is the most important thing.
"So we will be taking care of ourselves and all the pros will be quarantining to make sure we’re all fit and healthy to do the show."