Strictly Come Dancing bosses are lifting the ban on over 60’s taking part, it’s been reported, after they were forbidden from competing in the show in 2020 due to Covid.
With the over 60’s at a higher risk of complications from Covid, bosses at the BBC show had created the new rule for the safety of the celebrities.
But according to The Sun, the 2021 series will be welcoming celebrities of all ages, and there are already some options lined up with so many stars keen to take part.
A source revealed to the publication: “Last year’s ban was a shame to some older hopefuls desperate to take part.
“Now the seniors are being welcomed back with open arms, which is great news for viewers who like watching showbiz veterans have a go.
“Bosses now have everything in place if necessary, but they’re hoping a lot of the rules will have been relaxed and will be encouraging everyone to get the jab.”
The Mirror has contacted the BBC for comment.
So far, the oldest ever contestant on the show has been TV presenter Johnny Ball, who was 74 when he competed in 2012.
(Image: PA)
In 2020, Bill Bailey became the oldest ever winner aged 55, alongside his dancing partner Oti Mabuse, with actress and comic Caroline Quentin, 60, also competing alongside partner Johannes Radebe.
It was recently confirmed Strictly would return to its usual 13-show run this year, after it was forced to drop down to just nine due to the pandemic, and the live Blackpool show was axed for the first time since 2010.
This year’s series begins on September 25, making the start date almost a month earlier than last year.
(Image: Getty)
The grand finale of the competition will take place on December 18 as the remaining dancers and their celeb partners battle it out for the Glitter Ball trophy.
The Sun reports that provisional plans show the crew have been told to expect a visit to ballroom capital Blackpool on November 20 after the popular trip was scrapped last year.
The show was hit by several cases of coronavirus last year with some couples needing to withdraw from the competition.
This included the show’s first ever same-sex dance pairing, world champion boxer Nicola Adams and professional Katya Jones.
Because of the disruptions, bosses also had to run four highlights shows instead of a live event.
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Originally from https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/strictly-lifts-ban-over-60s-23893836