Strictly Come Dancing bosses 'ban' star in fear of 'upsetting' Queen Camilla

Strictly Come Dancing bosses have reportedly blocked Paul Burrell from joining the show over fears it could upset Queen Camilla.Sources say the former Royal butler, 66, has been discussed as a possible contestant several times over recent years. But BBC executives are said to have ruled him out entirely due to the show's strong ties with the Palace.

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, who was Princess Diana's former butler, has previously faced accusations that he has cashed in on his relationship with the late Princess of Wales, which he has always denied.

The BBC show is known to be popular with senior royals, especially Queen Camilla, who has called herself one of Strictly's "greatest fans". The BBC informed Express.co.uk they would "not be commenting" on the reports.

The Queen attends Silver Swans-ballet classes for older dancers-run by the Royal Academy of Dance and has made no secret of her love for the programme.

Host Tess Daly's husband Vernon Kay previously revealed that a genuine bond has formed between his wife and Her Majesty over their shared love of Strictly.

Vernon said: "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."

He added: "It's crazy to think of the King and Queen sat on the sofa with a brew watching your wife present Strictly."

Johannes Radebe also spoke warmly about meeting Camilla on Loose Women, recalling a time before King Charles' cancer diagnosis. He revealed that she once told him: "We all watch it."

The dancer said: "I saw the responsibility she has on her shoulders, how she dedicated her time and was really listening to people. She went around and shook everyone's hands. I really admire her."

When Camilla mentioned wanting to learn how to dance, Radebe gave her a pair of beige tap shoes. "She said she'd wear the shoes and commit herself to learning. She spoke very fondly of dance and how it's good for you," he said.

Camilla has long supported the show publicly. She hosted a tea party at Clarence House for Strictly stars, danced with former pro Brendan Cole, and even recorded a special video message for the show's 2020 final, won by Bill Bailey and Oti Mabuse.

Many viewers also noted that Strictly co-hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly were both recognised in the King's Birthday Honours this year - adding to the speculation that the Royal Family remains closely connected to the hit BBC series.