Dancing With The Stars is set to return to RTÉ One next year, and bosses are doing everything they can to prevent any potential outbreaks of Covid-19.
According to the Irish Sun, the show’s professional dancers have been told they need to be fully vaccinated before the programme returns in 2022.
Sources have claimed production company ShinAwil reached out to the dance professionals last month.
An insider said: “RTE aren’t taking any chances this year. The show has been recommissioned under the strictest Covid protocols.”
Goss.ie has contacted RTÉ for a comment.
The news comes amid speculation surrounding Strictly Come Dancing, after The Sun reported that three pro dancers had refused the Covid-19 vaccine, causing tension behind-the-scenes.
At the time, a spokesperson for the show said: “We do not comment on speculation of somebody’s Covid vaccination status. Strictly Come Dancing production has, and will continue, to follow strict government guidelines to ensure the safety of all on the show.”
RTÉ are yet to officially confirm the return of Dancing With The Stars, but last month Goss.ie learned that ShinAwil was in final talks with the broadcaster about bringing the show back.
A well-placed insider told us: “Crew members, presenters, and judges have been told that things are looking good.”
“The production company has asked people to start preparing for the next series. Everyone from the film crew to the dancers is being told to plan for the show’s return.”
Another source added that while “no contracts have been signed for talent yet”, everyone is waiting on the “official green light” so that rehearsals can kickstart.
Historically the pro dancers and their celebrities are partnered up by October, with rehearsals starting in November at the latest.
The Gossies award-winning show is hosted by Nicky Byrne and Jennifer Zamparelli, with judges Brian Redmond, Julian Benson and Loraine Barry.
And social media star turned presenter James Patrice hosts the online behind-the-scenes show for RTÉ’s social media channels.
To date celebrities like Glenda Gilson, Marty Morrissey, Aoibhin Garrihy, Holly Carpenter, Peter Stringer, Erin McGregor, Mairead Ronan, Brian Dowling and more have taken to the dance floor.
