Strictly stars face being kicked off the show if they test positive for coronavirus
STRICTLY stars face being kicked off the show as soon as they test positive for coronavirus.
The “first strike” rule was revealed as BBC bosses take drastic measures to ensure the dancing hit can return successfully next month.
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Executive producer Sarah James said: “Unfortunately, if you receive a positive test, that means you wouldn’t be able to continue in the competition.
According to guidelines, you would have to isolate for two weeks and that would rule you out.”
Either the celeb or pro in each pairing will have to isolate away from loved ones throughout the series. And producers will use “close contact cohort” rules to allow them to compete without social distancing.
Ms James added: “Close contact cohort applies to people who need to be able to work more closely together with one person and are regularly tested.
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“We are also asking our celebrities and dancers to be part of an exclusive support bubble that means that one half of the party has to live alone.”
The series — filmed at Elstree Studios in Borehamwood, Herts — has been cut from 12 shows to nine and the pros have already pre-recorded 14 group dances.
The number of people on site has also been slashed to further reduce Covid risks.
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