Strictly Come Dancing is no stranger to controversy, and the latest series of the beloved BBC dance contest is causing a stir among viewers who sense the emergence of fresh drama.

Some eagle-eyed fans have detected what they think is a simmering tension between two of the show’s professional dancers, even identifying the exact moment they believe this became evident on the screen.

The apparent rift was picked up by fans during last weekend’s live show. Following Tasha Ghouri of Love Island fame and her Strictly dance partner Aljaz Skorjanec’s routine, they spoke with host Claudia Winkleman about their performance.

However, it was pro dancer Katya Jones, standing in the background, who caught viewers’ attention with her stone-faced expression that sharply contrasted with the surrounding smiles. This led to quick speculation online that she wasn’t too thrilled about Tasha and Aljaz’s segment with Claudia.

Strictly Come Dancing fans spot ‘feud’ between pro dancers as ‘tension’ rises

According to The Sun, a web forum was buzzing with theories, with one fan remarking: “I noticed Katya didn’t look very happy when Tess was talking to Aljaz and Tasha in the auditorium.”

Another chimed in, adding: “I noticed that too. I wonder if Katya is the female pro who Aljaz ‘fell out with’ on the tour? Or I could just be reading too much into things as usual.”, reports OK!.

After whispers of disquiet among the Strictly dance troupe regarding Aljaz Skorjanec’s return, it seems there’s more to the story than meets the eye. The fan-favourite previously bowed out in 2022, amid rumours of an offstage spat with a fellow dancer during that year’s live tour only to make a comeback for the shiny new 2024 season.

Gossip from The Sun suggests discontent in the ranks: “They actively recruited a dancer who left under a cloud. Aljaz was touted as an unproblematic, returning legend but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Most were relieved to see him go back then and are aghast he’s been given a free pass back.”

Strictly Come Dancing viewers think they’ve spotted a feud on set

Yet, Aljaz’s representation swiftly hit back with a rebuttal saying: “Aljaz has the utmost respect for everyone he works with. He chose to leave the show in 2022 of his own accord but he has always loved Strictly and was delighted to be asked back. It is untrue to say or suggest he was forced out or that he acted in an aggressive manner at any time. He is excited to make his return to the dance floor this year.”

Meanwhile, in a juicy tidbit from an OK! exclusive, Tasha and Aljaz get candid about the judging panel. Tasha admits feeling under the microscope with Shirley Ballas in the room, divulging: “Hmm… Shirley? ! When she’s watching the dances you feel she’s got laser beams on your feet your posture…” Aljaz chimes in with a touch of nostalgia over his break from the spotlight: “Oh, how I’ve missed those judges..”