Strictly Come Dancing's most complained about episodes including Ofcom storm

Strictly Come Dancing has captured the nation's imagination since it first graced television screens in 2004. The BBC One programme returned this year for its 21st series, with millions of devoted fans tuning in each weekend to watch celebrities take to the ballroom floor.

However, beneath the glittering surface, the programme has faced its fair share of controversy, from bullying accusations to passionate backstage affairs. These explosive moments haven't gone unnoticed by eagle-eyed Strictly enthusiasts, with many promptly registering their grievances with broadcasting regulator Ofcom. Here are the five biggest Strictly scandals that generated the highest number of Ofcom complaints.

Steve Allen's 'chubby' comment

LBC presenter Steve Allen found himself at the centre of a storm after describing 2021 contestant Tilly Ramsay as a "chubby little thing" during his radio programme, triggering more than 800 complaints to Ofcom. According to reports, he received 840 formal objections and subsequently issued a private apology to Tilly, the daughter of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.

Robbie Savage's 'crotch' moment

Former footballer Robbie Savage's provocative crotch gesture attracted 325 complaints to Ofcom. Dancing alongside professional partner Ola Jordan, the Welsh sportsman sparked outrage during his performance of Michael Jackson's 'Bad', which concluded with him leaping onto the judges' table and executing a contentious crotch grab.

Savage addressed the controversy in an interview with Digital Spy: "I've had a bit of bad press this week. It's really got me down because, you know, during my football career, people said some pretty nasty things about me. And I've just gone out there... If I offended anyone, I didn't mean to. I just went out there to have fun, and surely that's what it's all about?"

Same-sex dance

The introduction of same-sex dancing partnerships in 2020 sparked controversy, with approximately 200 viewers complaining to Ofcom following Graziano Di Prima and Johannes Radebe's performance, according to OK!

Additionally, when Katya Jones and Nicola Adams were paired together, another 100 complaints were lodged. The disputes continued that year with over 100 objections received after a tribute to 'Priscilla Queen of the Desert' during Musicals Week.

Voting mishap

A further scandal emerged in 2008 when a technical error during the semi-finals caused widespread frustration amongst viewers. Rachel Stevens and Lisa Snowdon found themselves level at the summit, meaning votes cast for third-placed Tom Chambers counted for nothing. Nearly 200 complaints were submitted to Ofcom following this mistake.

Bruno breast 'grab'

A particularly uncomfortable moment occurred in 2017 when judge Shirley Ballas appeared distressed after Bruno Tonioli touched her breasts, resulting in 20 complaints to Ofcom. A television source disclosed to The Mirror: "The BBC has now received formal complaints and will be officially looking into them to decide whether Bruno's behaviour was acceptable. He obviously thought it was light-hearted fun, but you could tell Tess was shocked by her reaction. She looked completely aghast."