Michael Mosley: TV doctor was 'set to join Strictly line-up' as close pal addresses approach from BBC bosses

Michael Mosley

Michael Mosley: TV doctor had reportedly eyed up a stint on Strictly before his death

PA/BBC
Alex Davies

By Alex Davies


Published: 12/06/2024

- 09:15

The 67-year-old died last week while on the Greek island of Symi

Michael Mosley was reportedly being eyed to star on the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing before his tragic death, a friend has claimed.

The TV doctor, who regularly offered medical and diet advice on British TV shows, died of "natural causes" while on the Greek island of Symi.


Mosley disappeared on Wednesday, June 5 with his wife raising the alarm soon after and in the days that followed, a frantic search operation was carried out on the island.

His body was discovered on Sunday morning in the scorching heat, just 350ft away from where his children had searched in the Agia Marina, with police spokesperson Konstantia Dimoglidou stating that a post-mortem found no injuries on his body that could have caused his death.

Before setting off to Greece, Mosley reportedly informed close friends and family that his career was about to take an exciting turn.

Mosley had stated he had "no intention" of slowing down in his career in an interview before his death and a friend has allegedly claimed he was looking forward to the prospect of joining the dance competition.

Michael Mosley

Michael Mosley died on the Greek island of Symi

ITV

A friend of Mosley's reportedly told the Daily Mail: "He told me just the week before last he'd been invited to do Strictly."

However, it is believed that Mosley hadn't put pen to paper on a contract before his death. GB News has contacted the BBC for comment on the reports.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Strictly Come Dancing, although much of the conversation surrounding the show is centred on a "bullying" scandal away from the dancefloor.

Earlier this week, the BBC confirmed dancer Giovanni Pernice wouldn't be returning to the show after facing allegations from four former partners.

Abbington and Pernice

BBC Strictly: Giovanni Pernice won't be returning to Strictly

BBC

Pernice has vehemently denied "any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour" in his training methods.

The saga unravelled after Amanda Abbington, who was partnered with Pernice in the 2023 series, quit the show early for "personal reasons".

She went on to claim she'd been diagnosed with PTSD as a result of Pernice's behaviour in the rehearsal room.

Legal firm Carter Ruck said last month it had contacted the BBC regarding "numerous serious complaints" about Pernice's alleged behaviour behind the scenes of Strictly.

An investigation in the misconduct allegations is believed to be underway at the BBC, with the broadcaster promising to handle complaints with "care, fairness and sensitivity".

Pernice is yet to address his Strictly departure publicly but there was lighter news elsewhere in the announcement of this year's professional dancers.

Pro dancer Amy Dowden will be making a return to the ballroom after having to miss out last year following her breast cancer diagnosis.

The 34-year-old had undergone several procedures and rounds of treatment - including a mastectomy - after she discovered a lump in April 2023.

Taking to Instagram, Dowden celebrated the news by typing: "I’m so happy and grateful to be back on @bbcstrictly. MY HEART IS SO HAPPY. The best team on and off the dance floor.

"I can’t wait to be back doing what I love most in the world, dancing! Feel blessed and more excited than EVER. Bring it on! Thank you @bbcstrictly for your support always. Eeeeeekkk #amysback #strictlycomedancing #letsdothis #excited #cantwait #myheartissohappy." (sic)

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