The BBC and the Strictly Come Dancing judges are reportedly at odds over a wage hike.
Shirley Ballas, 62, Craig Revel Horwood, 58, Motsi Mabuse, 42, and Anton Du Beke, 56, are believed to have requested an extra 11% on top of their salary due to growing inflation.
However, the Line of Duty broadcaster is said to have rejected the raise, resulting in a “standoff” between the two sides, but they are “more likely” to counteroffer in the range of 3 or 4%.
While the BBC has not officially remarked on the judges’ pay, it has been rumoured that Shirley is paid £500,000, Craig is paid £200,000, Motsi is paid £200,000, and Anton is paid between £175,000 and £200,000.
‘There’s been a lot of conversation about contracts, but there’s somewhat of a stand-off,’ a source told The Sun.
‘In the blue corner, you have the BBC who are absolutely adamant there will be no bumper deals this year.
‘And in the red corner are the judges — and their agents — united in their desire for renewed deals to reflect the economic situation.
‘Yes, their salaries are vast, but Strictly is on for a limited time and other opportunities in a cost-of-living crisis are not so forthcoming.’
The BBC was ‘holding hard,’ according to the insider, and it was’safe to say no conditions had been reached.’
The ‘negotiations’ came after it was reported that Rylan Clark, a member of the Strictly family, will be departing It Takes Two after four years.
In a statement, the 34-year-old wrote: ‘After four fantastic years it’s time for me to hang up my glittery jacket and say goodbye to It Takes Two.
‘I’ve had the best time hosting the show alongside Janette [Manrara] and Zoe [Ball] and I can’t thank the amazing team enough for always putting on a great show.
‘I’ve been welcomed into the Strictly family and will firmly hold that title dear to me.
‘The time has come for me to pass on the baton to someone else and explore what else life has for me.
‘Thank you Strictly, you will always have my heart… and dancing feet.’
