Strictly Come Dancing kicked off its latest series with a bang last night as the live shows began.
But, according to reports, ex-army security guards were around at the studios as many of the stars have received death threats.
The Sun reports contestants were also assigned codenames in a secret briefing as security was amped up at Elstree in North London.
They have also been ordered not to reveal any details about where they are rehearsing in order to not share information about their whereabouts.
The publication reports the new security team were introduced due to a couple of “specific, very sinister threats”.
The source said: “Each year celebs get letters but this year there have been a few stand-out, deeply sinister ones which were flagged to the in-house team.
“Security were alerted and a concerted effort made to bump up protection.
“This includes the hiring of an external company made up mainly of ex-military personnel, and a weekly briefing ahead of the live show.”
BBC told Express.co.uk: “Like any live TV show we take security incredibly seriously. We always have extensive security measures in place to protect our cast, crew and audience, and the arrangements are reviewed on a regular basis.”
Meanwhile, Kelvin Fletcher and Oti Mabuse topped the leaderboard last night with their sizzling Samba.
Kelvin was introduced to Strictly just two weeks ago after original star, Jamie Laing, was forced to pull out due to an injury.
The Emmerdale actor, who played Andy Sugden for 20 years, shared his thoughts on his performance on Instagram today.
He wrote: “We did it @otimabuse. 2 weeks of long hours rehearsing, mistake after mistake, laugh after laugh and we left it all out there on the dance floor!
“Samba Queen! @bbcstrictly #strictly.”
Oti also commented on their dance together, where she thanked her celebrity partner for his hard work.
Alongside a snap of the two of them, Oti wrote: “Still feels like a dream. Thank you @kelvin_fletcher for being yourself, working hard, listening and taking all the wonders of @bbcstrictly and thank you to everyone for your kind and sweet messages!
“This moment will never be forgotten, so grateful #Strictly.”
None of the celebrities were voted off last night, with them all sailing through to round two.
Strictly Come Dancing continues next week on BBC One.
