Strictly Come Dancing judges are reportedly in deadlock negotiations with the BBC over a pay increase in line with inflation. The popular ballroom dancing show has reportedly descended into chaos behind the scenes.
Shirley Ballas, 62, Craig Revel Horwood, 58, Motsi Mabuse, 42, and Anton Du Beke, 56, have reportedly asked for an 11 per cent payrise. It's been alleged that the broadcaster has rejected their requests for a double-digit increase, meaning the judges are at loggerheads with BBC bosses.
The broadcaster has reportedly given a counteroffer of around 3-4 per cent, despite the Strictly stars requesting a higher proposal in line with inflation. The BBC has never officially confirmed the salaries of the judges, but The Sun reported that Shirley is on £500,000 and Craig takes home £200,000, while Motsi earns £200,000 and Anton gets around £175,000 to £200,000.
An insider told The Sun: “There’s been a lot of talk around contracts but at the moment, there’s something of a stand-off. In the blue corner, you have the BBC who are absolutely adamant there will be no bumper deals this year.
“And in the red corner are the judges — and their agents — united in their desire for renewed deals to reflect the economic situation. Yes, their salaries are vast, but Strictly is on for a limited time and other opportunities in a cost-of-living crisis are not so forthcoming.”
The source added: “At the moment the Beeb is holding firm. Given the licence fee freeze, and the fact the judges’ salaries are effectively paid by the public, the optics would be terrible if Craig and co were to swan off with tens of thousands of pounds more for a few months’ work.
“And, let’s face it, they’re hardly down the mines. At present, it’s safe to say no terms have been agreed, and there’s some way to go in negotiations.”
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