Strictly Come Dancing is allegedly keen to introduce its first gender-neutral dance couple.
Head judge Shirley Ballas has hinted the BBC wants to explore further progressive options after the success of their first same-sex couple John Whaite, 33, and his dance partner Johannes Radebe, 35 - who made it to the final last year.
The 61-year-old said the move comes after it was revealed the BBC lists more than 150 different genders on its staff.
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At the time of the first same-sex couple being announced, the queer community rallied in support of the BBC breaking the show's long-running gender roles. The move was classed as a hugely important step in the right direction regarding representation and we "shouldn't underestimate how important a step this is."
Despite positive reviews from the LGBT+ community, the show was condemned for not being "what viewers of Strictly, especially families, are looking for," by Conservative MP and former contestant Ann Widdecombe. The BBC also received more than 100 complaints in the first episode, a trend which continued throughout the series.
Speaking at the TRIC Awards at London's Grosvenor House Hotel, Shirley said the inclusive change could come to fruition as soon as the next series Autumn series. She said: "Everything is possible. [Executive producer] Sarah James is always looking outside the box, and if it fits... I'm sure we'll be seeing a lot of things you won’t be expecting."
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