STRICTLY Come Dancing’s stellar professional cast were all smiles as they headed to rehearsals for the upcoming 2024 series – despite the huge controversy surrounding the show. stars – who included Dianne Buswell, 35, Nikita Kuzmin, 26, and Katya Jones, 35 – looked in high spirits as they returned to their intense training schedules in London.

Carlos Gu, 31, and Nikita flashed peace signs to the camera while Aljaz Skorjanec, 34 – who is returning for Strictly’s 20th anniversary year – gave a cheery thumbs up.

Yet his delight came shortly before his wife – former Strictly pro Janette Manrara, 40 – broke her silence on claims by her former celeb partner Will Bayley.

The mum of one spoke out after The Sun told how she is alleged to have branded one of the sports ace’s jump’s as “rubbish” before asking him to repeat the feat.

Paralympian Will, 36, said he was encouraged to leap from a table despite his concerns.

He was hurt during a studio rehearsal with Janette watching from the sidelines as he went through the routine with fellow pro Nancy Xu.

His comments are now part of Strictly’s official investigation.

Also absent from the BBC dancing crew strolling to the studios in the UK sunshine was Giovanni Pernice, 33, who quit  show earlier this year.

He is currently under investigation by  over misconduct after complaints were filed by several of his former celebrity dance partners.

The same investigation also saw his fellow Italian professional Graziano Di Prima axed after allegations of “physical incidents” towards show partner Zara McDermott, 27, – so he was not part of the arrivals either.

Nancy was seen jumping in the air and Neil – who recently became a dad – showcased a signature grin as he exited his car.

Strictly regulars will no doubt be elated to spot Amy Dowden, 33, in the mix after her battle with breast cancer.

The Welsh pro – who donned a red crop top, denim skirt and white blazer as she arrived at rehearsals – was forced to miss the previous series due to her treatment.