BBC Strictly Come Dancing 'signs up' Gladiators star after show controversy
Strictly Come Dancing bosses are said to be 'in talks' with a Gladiators star for the 2025 series
Gladiators' Nitro, also known as Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, is set to join the 2025 series of Strictly Come Dancing. The 36-year-old has previously graced the BBC show's dance floor.
In the 2024 Christmas special, he partnered with professional dancer Nancy Xu, 33, and their performance earned them one of the highest scores of the night—an impressive 37 points for their Street/Commercial routine.
The former Olympic sprinter caught the attention of the show's bosses, who are keen to have him on board for a full season of the popular dance competition, now in its 23rd year. It's hoped that he can juggle his commitments with Gladiators, which typically films over the summer months.
Strictly usually kicks off in August, but contestants are confirmed weeks prior and start training immediately to build their confidence before the live shows commence.
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, aka Gladiator star Nitro, is expected to join the cast of Strictly in 2025
(Image: Getty Images )
Welsh Love Island star Emily Moran breaks silence as she joins ITV2 cast as bombshell
READ MORE:
Fay Ripley admits she owes her marriage to The Traitors star in One Show confession
READ MORE:
An insider told The Sun: "Bosses have been desperate to get Nitro on the series for a while. They were in talks last year but couldn't get the timings to marry up with his work," reports the Mirror, whih has reached out to the BBC and Harry's representatives for comment..
Article continues below
The source added: "He was a huge hit at Christmas prancing around in spandex and showing off his biceps. Producers were also impressed with his dancing."
An insider also suggested that the addition of Nitro could draw a fresh audience to Strictly, as producers aim to replicate the family-friendly success of Gladiators.
Strictly has faced its share of controversy and criticism in recent years, with allegations of misconduct by professional dancers and celebrity participants behaving inappropriately. Last year, Go Compare singer Wynne Evans caused a stir when he was seen touching dancer Katya Jones inappropriately.
Further scandal ensued during the 2025 Strictly Live Tour when off-colour remarks made by Evans behind the scenes were leaked. Jamie Borthwick, another participant from the 2024 series, found himself embroiled in controversy this month following revelations that he used a derogatory term to describe the residents of Blackpool during the show's filming there.
The previous year, Strictly was overshadowed by accusations from actress Amanda Abbington who claimed she was mistreated by professional dancer Giovanni Pernice. A BBC investigation was launched while Giovanni left the show, maintaining his innocence throughout.
Harry appeared in the 2024 Christmas special where he danced with Nancy Hu
(Image: BBC Studios/Guy Levy )
In another incident, professional dancer Graziano Di Prima confessed to accidentally kicking his celebrity partner Zara McDermott during rehearsals, leading to his departure from the show.
Strictly Come Dancing is set to grace our screens once again this year, with the familiar judging panel of Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Motsi Mabuse, and Craig Revel Horwood all confirmed to return. There's speculation that this season could be Craig's last on the show, as he previously declared he would leave after reaching 60.
Craig celebrated his 60th birthday this year, leading some viewers to worry that he might bow out after the forthcoming series. Yet, it seems he may have had a change of heart regarding his departure.
Article continues below
Speaking to The Mirror, he remarked: "I have no intention of quitting because it's a fantastic Saturday job that I intend to do into my 80s, as long as I'm still compos mentis, darling! and if I haven't been cancelled before then!".
Strictly Come Dancing is on BBC iPlayer
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Scottish Sun
8 minutes ago
- Scottish Sun
Justin Timberlake reveals secret health battle and confesses symptoms have been ‘relentlessly debilitating' on tour
JUSTIN Timberlake opened up about a 'relentlessly debilitating' health diagnosis after facing major backlash for his world tour performance. Timberlake shared a shocking health issue he's been dealing with amid criticism from fans that he appears "lazy" and "tired" on stage. 1 Justin Timberlake shared a shocking health diagnosis Credit: Getty Images - Getty The singer commemorated wrapping up the The Forget Tomorrow World Tour on July 30 with a lengthy post on Instagram. "This has been the most fun, emotional, gratifying, physically demanding, and, at times, grueling experience," the former NSYNC member said of his solo tour. "I could not have done it without my family, friends, The TN Kids, and all of YOUR support." Timberlake went on to reveal that he's been struggling with Lyme disease over the past couple of years. "Among other things, I've been battling some health issues, and was diagnosed with Lyme disease -— which I don't say so you feel bad for me –– but to shed some light on what I've been up against behind the scenes." Throughout the tour, the singer has been accused of "hardly singing," with many branding his performances "lazy." 'Justin Timberlake really thought he could do the bare minimum & get away with it?" one person posted on social media. In his post, Timberlake addressed his performance and the difficulties he experienced on stage. "When I first got the diagnosis I was shocked for sure," he wrote. "But, at least I could understand why I would be onstage and in a massive amount of nerve pain or, just feeling crazy fatigue or sickness." Timberlake said the diagnosis forced him to decide whether to keep touring or to put a hold on all of his shows. "I decided the joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling. I'm so glad I kept going," he reflected. The singer went on to say he is trying to be more transparent amid his diagnosis so others don't misinterpret his actions. "Sharing all of this with the hope that we can all find a way to be more connected," he wrote. "I'd like to do my part to help others experiencing this disease, too." Timberlake concluded his post by thanking his friends, family, fans, and crew members for their support over the past two years. More to follow... For the latest news on this story, keep checking back at The U.S. Sun, your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, sports news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures, and must-see videos. Like us on Facebook at TheSunUS and follow us on X at @TheUSSun
Daily Mirror
36 minutes ago
- Daily Mirror
John Torode looks tired on stroll after wife Lisa breaks silence on MasterChef exit
Former MasterChef judge John Torode was seen on a stroll with his dog and a friend this week after his wife Lisa Faulkner broke her silence on his departure from the BBC show Former MasterChef judge John Torode was spotted on a stroll with his dog Rory this week. It comes after his wife Lisa Faulkner broke her silence amid the scandal over the show and she later said that Rory had kept her smiling through it. It was announced earlier this month that John, 60, would not have his contract renewed. Production company Banijay said that an investigation into Gregg Wallace's behaviour by firm Lewis Silkin had "substantiated an accusation of highly offensive racist language against" John. John has however said: "I have no recollection of what I'm accused of." John was seen enjoying a walk with his dog Rory and a friend in London earlier this week amid the fallout from the scandal. It comes as the presenter's former co-star Gregg continues to promote his health and fitness coaching following his own departure from MasterChef. John was spotted out in the capital city on Tuesday as he enjoyed a relaxed walk with Rory and restaurateur Peter Horton. The pals are said to have been seen chatting as they took a stroll together whilst accompanied by John's dog. The former MasterChef host, who appeared to be yawning in some photos from the outing, opted for a casual look. John was seen wearing a blue t-shirt, grey hoodie, blue joggers and a pair of blue trainers for the walk two days ago. It comes after his wife Lisa, 53, broke her silence after John's departure from MasterChef, which he had co-hosted since it relaunched in 2005. She thanked fans for their support in a video on Instagram just a few days ago. Lisa said in the video message: ""Hi there. I just wanted to check in and say hello. I'm here and just thank you for all your lovely comments because they really, really mean a lot." She concluded by telling her followers: "So thank you." She later revealed that the couple's dog has kept her smiling lately amid John making headlines over his exit from the TV show. She made the remark in a post on the platform alongside a photo of herself and Rory on Tuesday. Lisa wrote: "Our little shadow over the past few weeks. I can't tell you how much Rory has kept me smiling. Every day she wakes up wagging her tail, smiling and greeting a new day with her positivity! My motto really is Be More Rory." Earlier this month, the BBC said: "John Torode has identified himself as having an upheld allegation of using racist language against him. This allegation, which involves an extremely offensive racist term being used in the workplace, was investigated and substantiated by the independent investigation led by the law firm, Lewis Silkin. John Torode denies the allegation. "He has stated he has no recollection of the alleged incident and does not believe that it happened. He also says that any racial language is wholly unacceptable in any environment. The BBC takes this upheld finding extremely seriously. We will not tolerate racist language of any kind and, as we have already said, we told Banijay UK, the makers of MasterChef, that action must be taken. John Torode's contract on MasterChef will not be renewed." Shortly after, John posted a statement that read: "Although I haven't heard from anyone at the BBC or Banijay - I am seeing and reading that I've been 'sacked' from MasterChef and I repeat that I have no recollection of what I'm accused of. The enquiry could not even state the date or year of when I am meant to have said something wrong. "I'd hoped that I'd have some say in my exit from a show I've worked on since its relaunch in 2005, but events in last few days seem to have prevented that. Over the past few months, I have been considering my life and the shape of it now and in the future. "Celebrity MasterChef, which I recently filmed with Grace Dent along with two fantastic Christmas specials will be my last. Personally, I have loved every minute working on MasterChef, but it's time to pass the cutlery to someone else. For whoever takes over, love it as I have. "I will watch fondly from afar as I now focus on the many other exciting projects that I have been working towards. My tummy will be grateful for a rest after 20 years of eating, but what a joy it has been. Life is everchanging and ever moving & sometimes personal happiness and fulfilment lay elsewhere. Thank you for the many years of MasterChef." As previously reported, production company Banijay said: "The legal team at Lewis Silkin that investigated the allegations relating to Gregg Wallace also substantiated an accusation of highly offensive racist language against John Torode which occurred in 2018. This matter has been formally discussed with John Torode by Banijay UK, and whilst we note that John says he does not recall the incident, Lewis Silkin have upheld the very serious complaint. Banijay UK and the BBC are agreed that we will not renew his contract on MasterChef."
Daily Mirror
38 minutes ago
- Daily Mirror
More 'lost' Doctor Who episodes will be found soon, expert predicts
Of the 97 BBC episodes still missing from the early years, there are more yet to be discovered, thanks to private collectors Several more lost episodes of 1960s Doctor Who are probably owned by private collectors and will turn up at some point, an expert has revealed. At present, 97 shows starring the first two Time Lords, William Hartnell and Patrick Troughton, are missing from the BBC archives. The master tapes were believed to have been destroyed in the 1970s when it was thought no one would want to watch the black and white episodes again. But the BBC's first archive selector, Sue Malden, said she believes some copies still exist and has made a plea for their return. Speaking at the Recovered festival in Leicester, hosted by archive recovery project Film is Fabulous!, she added: "As far as Doctor Who goes, we do not have a statement or anything to make at the moment. We do know fairly certainly that there are episodes missing in private collections. Some members of the Film is Fabulous! team are in a considerably significant position to help on that. "So, when the time is right, we really do hope that it will be Film is Fabulous! that manages to return at least one or two, I don't know, of the missing episodes of Doctor Who to the BBC." Only eight episodes of the show were ever repeated during the 1960s, with copies being made for sales overseas. A source said: "There's a lot of grounds for optimism that some episodes could be returned before too long. The films will be donated to De Montfort University in Leicester, and carefully restored." Lost episodes were as earlier returned by collectors Francis Watson, Terry Burnett and Bruce Grenville. Since the early 1980s, a trickle of copies have been sent back to the BBC, with a batch of nine shows starring Troughton being recovered in 2013 after being found in Nigeria. The most likely stories to turn up are: 1 The Tenth Planet, episode 4, October 29, 1966 Final Hartnell show where he defeated the Cybermen for the first time. 2 The Daleks' Master Plan, episode 4, December 4, 1965 The Daleks' Master Plan serial was never shown outside the UK but three episodes of this 12-part epic survive. 3 Marco Polo (broadcast from 22 February - March 4, 1964) Many copies of this were sold around the world. 4 The Web of Fear, episode 3 (broadcast February 17, 1968) Featuring Troughton battling the Yeti on the London Underground, other episodes were returned in 2013. 5 The Macra Terror (broadcast from March 11 - April 1, 1967) Introduced the first set of opening titles to feature Troughton's face. Doctor and friends encounter a race of giant alien crabs.
