Strictly star Neil Jones rapped by BBC after breaking strict rule on show

STRICTLY star Neil Jones has come into conflict with the BBC's strict rules for the show's stars.

The professional dancer, who joined the programme in 2016, recently became an ambassador for men's beauty brand Shakeup Cosmetics.

The original press release of the new collaboration used a picture of Neil posing with Glitterballs - which is something that is linked to Strictly Come Dancing.

BBC stars aren't allowed to promote products using their fame on the show.

This is stated in the clause of 'Actors and Artists Replicating Their BBC Roles in Other Output' in the editorial guidelines.

The BBC's editorial guidelines say: "Actors and artists who perform in BBC output should not appear in promotional work, including advertisements, in a way which mimics or replicates their on-air roles for the BBC.

"Actors, artists and/or performers from the same BBC output should not normally appear together in the same advertisement or separately across a series of advertisements for the same product.

"There will also be considerations around the timeframe for such promotions."

The Beeb had no comment, but a Strictly insider told The Sun that “action has been taken and Neil has been spoken to” by BBC bosses.

Sources close to Neil claim that the wrong photo was sent out ‘by mistake’.

Neil’s rep said: “Neil loves working on Strictly and would never knowingly want to break any rules.”

The new release describes Neil as a TV star who has joined the brand as their first ambassador.

Shakeup founder Jake Xu said of the new collaboration: "We are delighted to welcome Neil as our very first face of the brand.

"He aligns perfectly with our style, vision, and brand values and of course our fans and we are thrilled to announce this new partnership."

Neil added: "I'm really excited to be teaming up with Shakeup.

"Daily demands and hectic schedules can take its toll on my skin but looking after it properly is crucial, especially in my line of work.

"I love the Shakeup products - they give great results with minimal effort and they're great value.

"What a winning combination!"

Nick Knowles got in trouble with the broadcaster in 2021 after he dressed up as himself in DIY SOS for a Shreddies advert.

DIY SOS is a BBC programme which ha been on our screens since 1999.