“Rehearsals continued as normal as the dancers didn’t notice any interruptions.”

The Sun has contacted a Strictly spokesperson for comment.

The Strictly Come Dancing professionals were snapped returning to training for the first time this year on Monday.

Despite the BBC show being marred with claims of misconduct behind the scenes, they all seemed in good spirits.

Thankfully, Strictly bosses had already decided to hire a team of heavies to protect the dancers amid the uncertain time for the show.

Strictly Come Dancing 2024: The rumoured stars
Strictly is currently undergoing an internal investigation and the pros, including Katya Jones, were said to be grateful for the added protection.

As the first day of rehearsals got underway, another source said: “The professionals were all in great spirits as they met up as a group for the first time since the internal probe began.

“The BBC clearly didn’t want to take any chances though and had security there with them.

“They kept a low key presence but were keeping an eye out.

“Katya remarked that she was pleased they were there because she had been worried about a possible backlash.

“It has been a difficult time for many of the professional dancers recently.

“There has been a lot of uncertainty and coming together as a group has been great for team unity.”

This year marks Strictly’s 20th anniversary and bosses are determined that the show will go on despite the ongoing scandal.

Italian dancer Giovanni Pernice quit the BBC show earlier this year after he was accused of clashing with Amanda Abbington, claims he vehemently denies.

Giovanni Pernice Strictly scandal timeline

October 2023: Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already missed one live show. Her departure is announced in a vague BBC statement that ‘wishes her the best’.

Giovanni posts a short message on social media addressing the exit, which read: “Amanda… I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.”

Amanda then shares her own farewell statement on Instagram thanking co-stars but failing to mention Gio.

Giovanni’s dad Piero insists there were no signs of a fall out and the pairing could have gone all the way. He praised his son as kind and polite.

November 2023: Giovanni is reportedly gutted by the situation and is considering his Strictly future as questions are raised about his conduct.

January 2024: Amanda’s PTSD diagnosis comes to light and she demands CCTV from rehearsals to prove that Giovanni’s training methods weren’t acceptable.

The BBC issues a statement defending its duty of care to contestants, insisting it takes any claims of wrongdoing very seriously.

The Corporation stands by its man after emergency meeting

March 2024: Giovanni publicly states he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with close pal Anton du Beke.

Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the picture. Allegedly the two celebs, who were both previously partnered with Giovanni on Strictly, didn’t feel the BBC took their issues with his methods seriously enough.

The pair have a closed meeting with Amanda where tears are said to be shed.

May 2024: We reveal Giovanni is leaving the programme after having talks with show bosses

He leaves the country with girlfriend Molly Brown on holiday

The BBC launches an internal investigation after three complainants instruct lawyers. A source describes it as a “nightmare situation”.

Fellow Italian pro Graziano Di Prima was fired earlier this month after it was revealed he had kicked his celebrity partner Zara McDermott.

Insiders said the BBC were looking to shake up the format next year, with a potential cull of some of the professional dancers.

Meanwhile, BBC boss Tim Davie has apologised over the alleged abusive behaviour on Strictly while issuing a stern warning to stars.

Breaking his silence on the scandal, the corporation’s Director General said: “The line should never be crossed”.

Admitting he was “disappointed” by the complaints, Davie said: “I’m very sorry that anyone has had an experience on Strictly that hasn’t been wholly positive.”

Davie was speaking on the BBC’s annual report day.

He also said: “Strictly is a wonderful show that brings a lot of joy to a lot of people and has done so for 20 years to both those involved with the show and to the millions of people at home.

“Hundreds of people, be they pros, contestants or crew have been part of it and had a brilliant experience.

“At the same time if someone thinks there was something wrong or they want to talk about their experience then of course we want them to raise that with us. Be in no doubt we will take it seriously, listen and deal with it as appropriate.”

Drastic measures to safeguard contestants were announced last week after executives rushed to toughen up the show’s duty of care rules.

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A security guard could be seen making sure the area was safeCredit: MagicmomentsUK

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A large tarpaulin has been erected to keep unwanted visitors outCredit: MagicmomentsUK

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Strictly has been rocked by scandal this year, including Giovanni Pernice’s exitCredit: Getty

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Graziano Di Prima has been axed after he allegedly kicked Zara McDermott in trainingCredit: Getty

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Source: The Wall Street Journal