The BBC has denied reports a mystery virus has sparked turmoil on tonight’s Strictly Come Dancing amid reports six professional dancers were struck down by illness.
Producers have refuted suggestions dancers are “dropping like flies” after it was reported Katya Jones, Janette Manrara, Neil Jones, Aljaz Skorjanec and Anton du Beke are suffering with flu-like symptoms.
It comes after Brendan Cole, partner of singer Anastacia, was forced to pull out after a chest infection. A BBC spokesman said: “I can assure you that there is no “horrendous virus” sweeping through the pros.”
The denial comes after the Sun reported a virus had struck down the professionals during rehearsals this week.
A source told the newspaper: “Preparations for this weekend have been hampered by this horrendous virus sweeping through the pros.
“Poor Brendan is gutted not to be able to dance with Anastacia, but he has to listen to his body as a lung infection is no laughing matter.
He’s on doctor’s orders.
“But producers are now concerned some of the other pros could be following in his footsteps.
They have to rehearse and dance very intimately.
“And at the moment they are dropping like flies.”
The newspaper reported Katya Jones, partnered with former Labour MP Ed Balls, was forced to take breaks from rehearsals on Thursday while Janette Manrara was also ordered to rest.
Neil Jones, Aljaz Skorjanec and Anton du Beke were also said to be feeling ill.