BBC clarifies 'Strictly' celebrity rumours

The BBC has dismissed allegations that Sharon Osbourne and Richard Madeley have quit this year's Strictly Come Dancing.

Earlier today, tabloid reports suggested that the pair pulled out of the BBC One reality show because of pay cuts.

However, the broadcaster dismissed the claims, insisting that there is "no truth to the rumours".

"We talk to a huge amount of people at the start of the process," a Strictly spokesperson told DS. "It's a very lengthy selection procedure because we have to get the right mix of people involved.

"That can start with anything from simple questions like 'Are you interested?' or 'Would you be free on these dates?' But that is never any guarantee we will take on these people."

They added: "We have no idea where this news story has come from. We have never signed Osbourne or Madeley."

Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One in the autumn. The celebrity lineup is usually announced in late August.