‘Strictly Come Dancing’ bosses have rubbished claims Gemma Collins was set to star on this year’s series, but was axed from the line-up due to her “diva” behaviour.
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It had been reported that the former ‘TOWIE’ star was set to dazzle alongside Peter Andre and co on BBC ballroom show, but was pulled the plug at the last minute.
Gemma Collins
A source had told the Daily Star: "Gemma was quite demanding when it came to pre-series filming commitments.
"Her diva persona is a hit with fans but didn’t go down well at ‘Strictly’.”
However, a BBC spokesperson has now claimed that Gemma was never approached to join the show.
"She has never met with Strictly bookers and there were no plans for her to appear on the show,” they said.
A source close to the show added to OK! magazine: “No one from ‘Strictly’ ever approached or met with Gemma Collins. She wasn’t axed because she was never part of the show.”
While she never had the chance to shine on the dancefloor, Gemma has been lending her support to friend Peter Andre, who topped the leaderboard during the first weekend of live shows.
She wrote ahead of Saturday’s show: “Pete all my love and so excited to watch you tonight you are going to smash it x.”
It has also been reported that Gemma is planning on returning to the ‘I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!’ jungle, following her disastrous stint last year.
Gemma had a disastrous turn on 'I'm A Celeb'
The GC quit the ITV reality show after just four days, but is apparently been given a second chance to overcome her fears,
A source told The Sun in July: “Although Gemma’s last stint in the jungle was a disaster, she made great TV.
“Bosses are fascinated to see if she can overcome her fears and stay for the duration.
“Talks are at an advanced stage but Gemma is up for it and is desperate to prove she can stick it out.”
‘I’m A Celebrity’ is set to return to ITV in November.