Strictly Come Dancing in Talks with Married Reality Star, BBC Confident He’ll Resist ‘Curse’

Strictly Come Dancing is reportedly in talks with a married reality TV star, as BBC bosses are convinced he won’t fall victim to the show’s infamous ‘curse’.

The so-called ‘Strictly curse’ has been a tabloid staple for over a decade – rooted in the idea that taking part in the show often spells trouble for contestants’ relationships.

Now, insiders reportedly claim producers are keen to sign none other than Paul Brunson.

The clean-cut relationship expert is known for his roles on Channel 4’s hit shows Married At First Sight UK and Celebs Go Dating.

The American star, who now lives in London, is seen as a safe option – and potentially just what Strictly needs following two drama-filled series.

A source told The Sun: ‘Paul would be the ideal tonic to the dark clouds over Strictly as he’s clean-cut, very intelligent and has no scandals to worry about.

Strictly Come Dancing is reportedly in talks with a married reality TV star, as BBC bosses are convinced he won’t fall victim to the show’s infamous ‘curse’ (pictured hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly)

Insiders reportedly claim producers are keen to sign none other than Paul Brunson

‘They are now in discussion but he’s met with producers a number of times.

‘Everyone is hoping he’ll sign on the dotted line and is keen to make it happen.’

MailOnline has contacted the BBC and Paul’s representatives for comment. 

It comes just days after a Gladiators star was rumoured to have signed up for this year’s show after ‘impressing’ BBC producers on the Christmas special.

The superhuman, 36, took part in last year’s festive edition and was paired with professional dancer Nancy Xu.

Nitro, whose real name is Harry Aikines Aryeetey, has reportedly agreed to appear on the regular series this autumn.

A show insider told The Sun how the ex-Olympian had been on bosses’ wish list for some time now.

The said: ‘Bosses have been desperate to get Nitro on the series for a while.

It comes just days after it was revealed that Nitro, whose real name is Harry Aikines Aryeetey, has reportedly agreed to appear on the regular series this autumn

The superhuman, 36, took part in last year’s festive edition and was paired with professional dancer Nancy Xu 

‘They were in talks last year but couldn’t get the timings to marry up with his work.

‘He was a huge hit at Christmas prancing around in lycra and showing off his biceps. Producers were also impressed with his dancing.

‘The Gladiators’ fanbase is growing and kids love them so he’ll be a hit with younger viewers, too.’

MailOnline has contacted Nitro’s rep and the BBC.

Nitro previously hinted at a role in the main series when he revealed he would be taking part in the Christmas special with an injury.

He told The Mirror: ‘I am carrying an injury to some degree. It’s been quite tough. I’m not my full self. Hopefully that’s taken into consideration. But at the same time, I’m just here for a good time. I can dance, I can enjoy myself, that’s the most important thing.

Nitro previously hinted at a role in the main series when he revealed he would be taking part in the Christmas special with an injury

‘Although I think we’re going to do well and although I think we’re going to have fun with it, it would be nice to do myself 100% justice by competing another time on the main series.

‘It would be good to be in a position where I can show my ultimate self. I’ve got the bug. If the opportunity arises… it’s obeing in an arena and learning a new skill. If the opportunity arises, I would jump at it, literally because I’ll be able to jump by then.’

Earlier this year Strictly Come Dancing confirmed the professional lineup for 2025.

Dianne Buswell, who lifted the glitter ball in December with Chris McCausland, will be joining Nadiya Bychkova, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk and Jowita Przystal in returning to the dance floor this September.

Amy Dowden, who pulled out in the opening weeks of last year’s show due to a foot injury, will also be back on Strictly for 2025, as will Carlos Gu and Kai Widdrington, who didn’t have a celebrity partner last year.

Despite rumours that he might be making a return after missing out on last year’s series, Giovanni Pernice will not be heading back to the ballroom this time around.

Sarah James, Executive Producer, BBC Studios said : ‘The excitement is already building ahead of the new series and in addition to welcoming back our fantastic returning Pros, we are looking forward to welcoming two brand new Professional Dancers to the line up who will help bring another unforgettable series of dazzling dance and loads more besides to viewers later in 2025.’