After facing backlash from fans for refusing to pair same-sex couples, UK’s hit reality dancing competition Strictly Come Dancing has decided that it’s open to same-sex pairings to take part.
“Strictly Come Dancing is an inclusive show and we are proud to have featured same-sex dancing amongst the professional dancers in group numbers in previous series,” said a spokesperson at BBC.
“We are completely open to the prospect of including same-sex pairings between our celebrities and professional dancers in the future, should the opportunity arise”.
The news that same-sex couples are eligible to compete in next year’s season of Strictly Come Dancing has been well received. In past years, producers came under fire when they said they had no plans to change the mixed-sex format.
“Strictly has chosen the traditional format of mixed-sex couples and at the moment we have no plans to introduce same-sex couples,” said a spokesperson in 2017 when asked about the appearance of lesbian and gay celebrities.
Judge Craig Revel Horwood has always been a supporter of the idea, previously saying he thought that it would happen eventually.
“I think more and more people want it, the more it will happen,” he said.
“I have no argument against it. I think it would be rather fun. Maybe the BBC will be brave enough one day to do it”.
Last year, the show included a dramatic same-sex dance, for what was thought to be the first time, which drew positive reactions from fans. As well as the pairing of drag artist, RuPaul Drag Race alum, Courtney Act with a male dancer in the Australian version of the show could have further encouraged
the producers to make this emboldened move.
An insider from the BBC has been quoted as saying: “Having previously thought it was unnecessary, it has dawned on people at the BBC that the original British show looks a bit backwards in not having embraced the notion of a same-sex couple.
“It could well be that we follow the Aussie model and go for a charismatic drag act, because Courtney Act proved hugely popular with traditionally conservative Australian viewers. And why not shake things up a bit over here? It’ll be fun. Exciting times are ahead”.
Trees to celebrate Arbor Month