Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas has hinted the BBC dance competition could debut its first gender-neutral pairing in the upcoming series, due to air later this year.
The move would follow the success of its two same-sex couples, including John Whaite, 33, and dance partner Johannes Radebe, 35 - who made it to the final last year.
Head judge Shirley, 61, believes the show's executive producer is exploring all options, after it was revealed that the BBC lists more than 150 different genders to its staff.
She spoke about the new series whilst at the TRIC Awards at London's Grosvenor House Hotel earlier this week, hinting at the possibility of a gender-neutral dance partnership.
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."
Sarah oversaw the pairing of boxer Nicola Adams, 39, and Katya Jones, 33, in 2020 - followed by Great British Bake Off winner John and his dance partner Johannes last year.
Last month, it was revealed the BBC has trained staff in using people's pronouns correctly. Non-binary celebrities who use they/them pronouns include singers Sam Smith, 30, and Demi Lovato, 29.
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The popular BBC show is set to return later this year, with Tess Daly, 53, and Claudia Winkleman, 50, returning as hosts. The judging panel will remain the same as last year's series.
It means Anton Du Beke, 55, will return as a judge, following the official departure of Bruno Tonioli, 66, - who had previously been temporarily replaced by former dancer Anton.
The judging panel will also include head judge Shirley as well as Craig Revel Horwood, 57, and Motsi Mabuse, 41 - who will critique a new batch of celebrities on the show.
It was reported recently that the show is set to ditch some of its Covid protocols, with a full studio audience expected to return and protective screens for the panel possibly removed.
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