Strictly Come Dancing chiefs have reportedly ruled out Paul Burrell for the dance floor, amid concerns about ruffling feathers at Buckingham Palace.
Sources suggest that the former Royal butler’s name has popped up as a potential star in past discussions.
However, it seems the top brass are anxious about how his participation might be received by the royals, particularly Queen Camilla, a self-confessed Strictly superfan.
A source told The Mirror: “They know how much Queen Camilla loves the show and would love for her to appear in the audience…..but they fear that Paul’s involvement would scupper that relationship.”
Paul has previously been accused of profiting from his association with the late Princess Diana, allegations he has refuted. But the BBC programme does enjoy a close connection with the Royal household.
Queen Camilla, who attends Silver Swans ballet classes, has openly expressed her adoration for Strictly, even sharing with pro dancer Johannes Radebe that “we all watch it”.
Tess Daly’s husband Vernon Kay has also previously gushed about the “real friendship” blossoming between his wife and the Queen Consort, revealing that while they don’t text, they exchange messages through friends and the Queen is always eager for a slice of backstage chatter, reports the Mirror.
He recounted: “Camilla and Tess have a real friendship through it now. They don’t text, but we have mutual friends and messages come through.
“When they see each other, the Queen is always asking: ‘Who is your favourite?’ She wants to know the backstage gossip.
“It’s crazy to think of the King and Queen sat on the sofa with a brew watching your wife present Strictly.”
Queen Camilla also played hostess at a palace tea party for the Strictly crew, where she shared a dance with ex-pro Brendan Cole and even filmed a touching video message for the 2020 finale, eventually scooped up by champions Bill Bailey and Oti Mabuse.
The recent Birthday Honours from the King recognised telly favourites Strictly hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, which had fans chuffed given their service presenting together since 2014.
Reach Screen Time contacted the BBC, who declined to comment.