BBC defends Strictly Come Dancing’s dazzling drag routine following complaints from pathetic bigots
Strictly Come Dancing paid homage to musical theatre with a dazzling drag routine (BBC)
The BBC has responded to complaints made over a drag performance on Strictly Come Dancing, clearly sent by people with rich and fulfilling lives.
In a dazzling drag-themed number last week, professional dancers Giovanni Pernice, Gorka Marquez and Johannes Radebe take to the floor in glittering get-ups as they performed a fabulous Priscilla, Queen of the Desert-inspired routine.
It came after boxer Nicola Adams became the first celebrity to be paired with a partner of the same gender. Yet, the drag-themed number ignited backlash from offended viewers, clogging broadcast regulator Ofcom with complaints.
And BBC simply could not care less about these pearl-clutching viewers, it said in a statement, according to Metro.co.uk.
Strictly Come Dancing is, above all, inclusive, says BBC
“Strictly Come Dancing’s theme weeks prove very popular with viewers and to kick off this musicals week special the professional dancers pulled out all the stops and paid homage to the musical Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, which has received universal acclaim,” it said.
“It was intended to be a fun and entertaining musicals dance for our viewers who are used to and expect Strictly to be glamourous.
“We feel that it’s important to allow the choreographers and professional dancers to exercise creative freedom when putting together routines for a programme of this nature.
“Strictly is an inclusive show and we always ensure that the programme’s content is appropriate.”
The BBC only amplified what judge Craig Revel Horwood said earlier this week as he sought to squash the unsavoury critics.
He told The Guardian: “Strictly has always been at the forefront in representation, and I was thrilled when Katya and Nicola were confirmed as a professional couple this year.
“I’ve always appreciated when we’ve been able to push the boundaries and be representational, whether it’s Katya and Nicola as a professional pairing, same-sex professional dances, or last week’s drag-inspired opening number.
“Dance is for everyone and it should evolve to reflect the world we live in, and I’m proud Strictly reflects that.”
