Talks over Strictly show coming to Buckingham Palace collapsed - just weeks after Giovanni claims

Strictly bosses were floored when advanced talks backed by the Queen about holding the show’s 20th anniversary at Buckingham Palace collapsed.

BBC chiefs and royal officials reportedly discussed recording the special inside the palace. They were even said to have spoken about which room to use.

But negotiations suddenly fell through last month – just weeks after the BBC launched an investigation into Giovanni Pernice. The Italian Strictly star, 33, is accused of “abuse” by at least three of his ex dance partners.

A royal insider last night insisted the Buckingham Palace plans were cancelled as a result of “diary commitments and logistical problems” – but other sources claimed the investigation was taken into account.

One insider said: “The Queen is, very famously, a huge fan of Strictly who has met many of the stars over the years and danced with them, too.

“She found the idea of hosting Strictly at the Palace, especially for the 20th anniversary, a very exciting prospect and was keen to be involved. But she has also tirelessly campaigned to end violence against women for more than 10 years, and is incredibly passionate about that goal.”

“It was felt by some that the decision to welcome the show into the palace might come to be seen in a negative light in future. Soon after that it was decided that – in spite of the arrangements tentatively in place – the BBC’s request could not be accommodated this year.”

Queen Camilla spoke of her love of the show in February, when she said: “We all watch it. I’m one of Strictly’s greatest fans.”

Giovanni, who has exited the show, insists the allegations are false and is co-operating with the probe. Buckingham Palace and Strictly declined to comment.