BBC Strictly Come Dancing's launch in question after Queen's death
09.09.2022 - 14:41
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
This year's new series of Strictly Come Dancing could be delayed following the death of the Queen.
The BBC has pulled its planned scheduling for BBC One and BBC Two for Friday in order to make way for rolling news coverage on the sovereign's passing.
The UK has now entered an official national period of mourning which will last for 17 days.
This means the launch of Strictly Come Dancing is now in question, as writes the Mirror.
A pre-recorded episode was set to air on Saturday, September 17 which would show celebrity stars including Kaye Adams and Will Mellor matched up with their professional dance partners.
However, as the nation prepares to enter a period of mourning that will last until seven days after Queen Elizabeth II's funeral takes place, fans of the BBC ballroom show have speculated the show could be pushed back.
TV critic Scott Bryan tweeted: “In case you are wondering, expect no new BBC programmes to be broadcast over the next few days.
“I would expect popular shows such as Strictly and Bake Off to be delayed for the foreseeable.”
Strictly fans commented beneath his post, with one agreeing: “Strictly doesn't start airing live until the 24th, but next Saturday's launch episode will definitely be cancelled.
“It's possible they could instead air the launch episode on the Friday night (23rd) before the first live show the following evening.”
Another commented: “More likely they'll just delay the first episode by a week, then the celebs will all compete properly the week after that.”
The Queen passed away peacefully at Balmoral after concerns had earlier been raised over her health.
The statement from Buckingham Palace read: "The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon.
"The King and The Queen Consort will remain