Maisie Smith 'told to choose between BBC or record deal'

Maisie Smith was reportedly told to choose between her BBC projects or a big-money record deal.

The \'EastEnders\' actress - who plays Tiffany Butcher on the soap - was recently confirmed for the new series of \'Strictly Come Dancing\', but it\'s said she had to turn down a chance to follow in the footsteps of former \'Neighbours\' star-turned-singer Kylie Minogue until she\'s ready to move on from the Beeb.

An insider told The Sun newspaper: "Maisie wants to crack the music industry and several labels think she is really marketable.

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"One told her she could be the next Kylie , with her girl-next-door looks and down-to-earth personality.

"But she was told she could not take a record deal and continue on \'EastEnders\' and \'Strictly\' due to the BBC\'s commercial rules."

However, the 19-year-old star - who has spent over a decade on Albert Square since first appearing in 2008 - could still pursue a music career when she\'s ready to move on.

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The source added: "Maisie decided to take \'Strictly\' over the deal because she can revisit music after the show.

"This will give her an even bigger platform than \'EastEnders\' to show off her talents. She hopes it will be a huge chance for her."

Maisie has released a digital album herself, and often shares clips of herself singing on her social media profiles.

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The actress is excited for her \'Strictly\' stint, and although she admitted to having some dance experience, she insisted winning Strictly\'s \'Children in Need\' special with Kevin Clifton last year was an "absolute fluke".

She said: "It was an absolute fluke, I\'m not going to lie. I\'ve got dancing experience. I\'ve done a bit of hip hop and street dance, throughout my time.

"But I have no technical ability at all. So, I feel I was very lucky on that week. But who knows, I could be the dark horse."