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Does Possible 'Strictly' COVID-19 Restrictions Offer Insight Into 'Dancing with the Stars'?

  • Writer: Kristyn Burtt
    Kristyn Burtt
  • May 18, 2020
  • 2 min read

dancing with the stars season 28 finale
ABC/Eric McCandless.

The question about dance TV shows and COVID-19 is one that is really hard to answer given the day-to-day nature of the pandemic and the varying guidelines in each country, state and city. Yet a new report about Strictly Come Dancing might offer a bit of insight. While the BBC has yet to confirm the news from The Daily Mail via The Daily Star, but if the network can get a fall season together, a few major elements will be missing: •No studio audience •No group dances •Blackpool weekend canceled


Dancing with the Stars fans should look at Strictly as a model for what could happen in the fall if ABC can work its magic to make a season happen. In the U.S., there are a few other issues that could be a sticking point for the season to return. While California is slowly easing its restrictions, Los Angeles County public health director Dr. Barbara Ferrer has extended the stay-at-home order for L.A. indefinitely. Is that one more month or five more months? That is a key piece to puzzle in getting production to resume. The other crucial aspect is that SAG-AFTRA, along with the other crew unions, will have to sign off on any health and safety precautions for the cast. Since dance is a contact sport, DWTS has a lot of challenges ahead.


More: Choreographers & Creatives Get Real About The Impact of COVID-19 If a fall season does happen for DWTS, the absence of a studio audience is almost certain. That was one of the first measures Hollywood took before the lockdown began — show after show canceled their in-studio audience. While it would be disappointing not to see big opening numbers this season, viewers would probably rather have a DWTS season rather than wait months or a year before they see the show again. It's also a sure bet that travel will be out of the question for pros and the contestants. The days of a pro flying all over the U.S. or overseas to ensure the talent are rehearsed are over. The talent will most likely have to stay local if a fall season gets locked into place.

DWTS fans will have to remain patient with ABC as they navigate uncharted territory and figure out a way to salvage a television season, while adhering to state and local ordinances, in addition to union requirements. It's not an easy path to take.

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15 Comments


Joseph Houle
Joseph Houle
Aug 16

Strict COVID-19 restrictions on shows like Strictly could definitely influence how Dancing with the Stars manages safety while still delivering top-quality entertainment. It’s interesting to see how producers balance health protocols with the energy and excitement audiences expect. These measures might change the dynamics, but they also show resilience and adaptability in keeping live entertainment alive. In the end, safety comes first, and it’s impressive to see creativity thrive even under restrictions. Just like exploring Agha Noor Store in USA, it’s all about adapting while still expressing style and passion.

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Jimmy Green
Jimmy Green
Aug 15

The possible COVID-19 restrictions on Strictly Come Dancing could indeed offer valuable insight into how Dancing with the Stars might adapt in similar circumstances. From isolation bubbles to pre-recorded group routines, these measures show that with careful planning, entertainment can continue without compromising safety. Such proactive steps ensure continuity and protect everyone involved. Just like a precise iPhone back glass replacement requires the right tools and expertise, keeping a production running during a pandemic demands meticulous strategy and execution.

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Ruth David
Ruth David
Aug 13

It’s interesting to see how potential ‘Strictly’ COVID-19 restrictions could influence the production style, safety measures, and audience engagement for shows like ‘Dancing with the Stars.’ Adapting to health guidelines while maintaining entertainment value is a delicate balance, requiring creativity and flexibility from producers and performers alike. In much the same way, offering property legal advice in Dubai involves adapting strategies to evolving regulations while ensuring clients still achieve their desired outcomes effectively.

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Nathan Estrada
Nathan Estrada
Aug 13

This special report highlights twenty extraordinary women who are truly blazing trails in biopharma R&D, driving innovation through Covid-19 and beyond. Their resilience and strength in overcoming challenges remind me of the reliability of a heavy duty aluminum pergola—built to withstand tough conditions while providing lasting support. Just as these women are shaping the future of medicine, a heavy duty aluminum pergola enhances outdoor spaces with durability and style. Both represent powerful examples of strength and progress in their fields. It’s inspiring to see such leadership making a real difference.

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Jon Jones
Jon Jones
Aug 13

Possible ‘Strictly’ COVID-19 restrictions could offer valuable insights into how ‘Dancing with the Stars’ adapts its format to prioritize safety while keeping audiences engaged. These measures highlight the entertainment industry’s resilience and creativity under challenging circumstances. In a similar way, a Food ingredients supplier in Sharjah adapts processes to maintain quality and consistency, even when faced with unexpected changes.

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