Strictly Come Dancing Faces Three Major Problems As Viewers Question The BBC Show’s New Format

Strictly Come Dancing may be improving, but the BBC favourite still has some serious issues to work through, according to a new review of its latest series.

The popular dance competition has long been a Saturday-night staple, bringing together celebrities, professional dancers and millions of viewers. However, the latest episode left one critic questioning whether the programme is trying too hard to keep audiences entertained.

From an unusually early Movie Week to an overlong live broadcast, several aspects of the show have reportedly made the viewing experience feel less exciting than expected.

And while presenter Josh Widdicombe has become part of the conversation, the review suggests he is far from the only problem facing the programme.

1. Movie Week May Have Arrived Too Soon

Movie Week is traditionally one of the most anticipated themes of Strictly, giving contestants the opportunity to perform routines inspired by popular films.

This time, however, the theme reportedly felt awkwardly timed.

The opening number, elaborate costumes and repeated film-related jokes were criticised for overwhelming the programme rather than allowing the performances to speak for themselves.

The review suggested that the show’s bosses may be trying to move through its opening stages too quickly, potentially leaving viewers feeling that too much is happening at once.

Sometimes, a simpler approach can be more effective — and the latest episode raised questions about whether Strictly has lost sight of that balance.

2. The Live Shows Are Becoming Too Long

Another major criticism concerns the programme’s running time.

The live show reportedly lasted two hours and 35 minutes, with the reviewer arguing that the lengthy broadcast left too much room for unnecessary filler.

Between the dances, viewers had to sit through extended video packages, lengthy judges’ comments and repeated discussions that appeared to interrupt the flow of the competition.

Rather than building excitement between performances, these sections reportedly made the gaps between dances feel increasingly noticeable.

The review argued that the show’s extended format has become a problem in its own right, raising questions about whether every segment is necessary.

3. Josh Widdicombe Is Struggling To Find His Rhythm

Josh Widdicombe was another focus of the criticism, although the reviewer also expressed sympathy for the comedian.

His presenting style reportedly appeared uncomfortable at times, particularly when he seemed focused on delivering jokes from the autocue.

Some of the humour failed to land with the audience, creating awkward silences during sections that were supposed to provide light relief.

However, the reviewer noted that Widdicombe appeared more relaxed during the latest episode, suggesting that he may be finding his feet as the series progresses.

The criticism was not simply that he was unfunny. Instead, the review questioned whether the current presenting format gives him enough freedom to demonstrate the comic talent audiences have seen elsewhere.

The chemistry between Widdicombe and co-presenter Emma was also described as awkward, adding to concerns about the show’s overall presentation.

Could The BBC Change Its Approach?

Despite the criticism, the review acknowledged signs of improvement, particularly in Johannes Radebe’s technical approach to hosting.

The writer suggested that the production team should continue listening to feedback and consider rotating presenters to discover which combinations work best.

The wider question is whether the programme needs a more substantial rethink rather than a series of small adjustments.

With the extended running time, presenting arrangements and timing of themed weeks all under scrutiny, the challenge is finding a balance between spectacle and the dancing itself.

Some Contestants Are Still Making An Impression

Despite the concerns, there were highlights on the dance floor.

Graeme Hall attracted particular praise for his dramatic waltz to music from The Godfather, performed with professional partner Lauren Oakley. The reviewer suggested that he could become a dark horse in the competition.

Lacey Turner also caught the writer’s attention with an impressive performance despite appearing nervous.

Cach Mercer was described as growing in confidence, while Shaun Wright-Phillips appeared to have turned things around after a less convincing week.

John Nellis, meanwhile, struggled to impress the judges with his Titanic-themed Couples’ Choice routine alongside Katya Jones.

These performances suggest that there is still plenty for viewers to enjoy, even as questions about the programme’s format continue.

Is Strictly Losing Its Spark?

The latest review does not suggest that Strictly Come Dancing has run out of potential. Rather, it argues that the show needs to find a better balance between entertainment, presenting and the performances that made it popular in the first place.

Movie Week may have felt overdone, the live broadcast may have been too long, and Widdicombe may still be adjusting to his role. But the review also points to improvements and contestants who could yet become major highlights of the series.

The big question is whether the BBC can address these issues before they overshadow the dancing itself.

For a show that has entertained audiences for years, getting that balance right could make all the difference.