Former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips has issued a powerful plea for kindness, criticising what she describes as "unpleasant" and "depressingly serious" behaviour from some fans ahead of the show's grand final.
A Call for Joy Over Bitterness
Taking to social media on Friday, 20th December 2024, the legendary choreographer and original panellist urged viewers to refocus on the core spirit of the BBC competition: entertainment and the love of dance. Her intervention comes as the competition reaches its glitterball climax, with finalists Amber Davies, Karen Carney, and George Clarke preparing for their last performances.
"Thinking about @bbcstrictly and what a topsy turvy finale it's going to be," Arlene began in a lengthy Instagram post. "I wish everyone could remember this is an entertainment show. Online it has become so unpleasant and so depressingly serious."
Defending Contestants and Addressing the 'Dance Experience' Debate
Phillips, who served as a judge for six series, directly tackled one of the most persistent and divisive topics among the fanbase: contestants with prior dance training. She defended the show's selection process and the individuals involved.
"Sometimes it seems people forget the @BBC invites these contestants, all with a mixture of dance histories, they don't just wander into the competition," she wrote. "There have always been contestants with some dance training taking part. At what level, it varies."
She emphasised that having experience is no guarantee of victory, citing the example of last year's brilliant finalist Layton Williams, who did not win despite being one of the series' standout dancers. Phillips argued that the current tone of criticism has escalated unfairly. "The bitterness that now seems to be levelled at those taking part exceeds anything in the past and it really must stop," she stated firmly.
Celebrating the Finalists and a Plea for Unity
Arlene reserved particular praise for the three finalists, offering strong support to Amber Davies, who has faced intense scrutiny over her musical theatre background. "Yes, Amber is a triple threat and she's brilliant and she knows what she's doing," Phillips wrote. "The hate she has received is totally unfair and has been quite shocking."
She also hailed George Clarke and Karen Carney as "firecrackers" who are "totally deserving" of their place in the final, and paid tribute to the professional dancers and world-class choreographers who create the routines each week.
For Phillips, the essence of Strictly remains simple: "The main thing every season should be about is the joy of dance and learning ballroom and Latin styles." As the final loomed, she concluded with a heartfelt appeal for a positive atmosphere. "Tonight let's celebrate all of them. Put our love into the atmosphere… and remember for next season to #BeKind."
With the final now upon us, Arlene Phillips's message is a stark reminder that while the competition is fierce, the sparkle of Strictly should never be dimmed by online vitriol.
