The BBC has responded to complaints about the inclusion of a same-sex pairing on the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing, stating that the show is 'an inclusive show' and that it was 'happy to facilitate' Nicola Adams' request to be partnered with a woman.
In a statement published on the complaints section of its website, the corporation emphasised that Strictly is 'first and foremost about dance' and that 'the sex of each partner within a coupling should have no bearing on their routine'. The move follows a one-off routine last year featuring male professionals Johannes Radebe and Graziano di Prima dancing together, which attracted 189 complaints.
Olympic boxer Adams, who will be partnered with a female professional, told The Guardian that the same-sex pairing is 'not really a big deal' and 'not such an uncommon thing'. She added, 'I guess it's just breaking those boundaries and showing people that it's OK.'
The 18th series of Strictly Come Dancing begins in October with 12 celebrity contestants and a shorter run than usual. Judge Bruno Tonioli will have a reduced role, and the show will not go to Blackpool for its traditional mid-series special.
