Strictly 2025 disaster as stars take desperate steps to avoid losing money

Strictly Come Dancing is reportedly heading into another crisis-ridden year. The BBC hit is already under fire with a drugs scandal, accusations of rape, a third of the cast reportedly on fat jabs and one celebrity dropping out before launch. But now there's a fresh revelation that shines a harsh light on the state of the show that contestants are reportedly buying their own extra insurance.

Several of this year's cast are said to have voluntarily topped up their cover to protect both their health and their bank balances. While the BBC provides a standard public liability policy, some stars have gone further, securing private packages in case of accidents, illness or loss of earnings. A source told The Sun: "The BBC's insurance is just what you'd expect on a TV show, and there have been several of this year's cast who feel like it's just not enough.

"They're essentially topping it up by buying their own insurance cover - not just relying on the Beebs - so they're backed in case of any loss of earnings, health issues, accidents and the like."

The BBC has been contacted by Express.co.uk for comment on the claims.

The fear isn't unfounded. Last year, Nick Knowles revealed he had to foot the bill for two major operations after suffering injuries in rehearsals.

He ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during a jump with pro Luba Mushtuk and was later voted out. The accident forced him to wear a brace, use crutches and re-learn how to climb stairs - all out of his own pocket.

This year's cast includes former footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, ex-England rugby captain Chris Robshaw and Lionesses star Karen Carney.

With their careers built on fitness, the risk of injury is a serious concern. For reality stars like Vicky Pattison, Dani Dyer, and Lewis Cope, missing out on work could hit their earnings hard.

The new insurance worry comes after reports that a number of celebrities had been using weight-loss injections such as Mounjaro ahead of the series.

It also follows the medical withdrawal of Game of Thrones star Kristian Nairn, who was swiftly replaced by Emmerdale's Lewis Cope.

In recent months, Strictly has also been rocked by historical rape allegations. The BBC has been forced to defend its processes amid mounting scrutiny.

A spokesperson for the show said: "We have longstanding protocols for dealing with injuries if they occur on the series, and that includes contestants receiving treatment and support as required.

"We also have clear protocols and policies in place for dealing with any serious complaint raised with us. We would always encourage people to speak to us if they have concerns."

With stars now paying out of their own pockets for peace of mind, the so-called golden ticket of a Strictly invite looks more like a gamble than ever.