Strictly Come Dancing star Amber Davies has urged fans to 'be kind' after facing criticism over her dance background, revealing she 'wasn't even supposed to be in the competition.' The 29-year-old West End performer topped the leaderboard with her professional partner Nikita Kuzmin after scoring four 10s for her Charleston to 'Sit Down, You're Rockin' the Boat' from Guys and Dolls.
Following the performance, Davies took to Instagram to address the backlash. 'Guys, please...it's really is just a television show,' she wrote. 'I wasn't even supposed to be in the comp. You have no idea what we put our mind and body through for this experience.. I'm really just trying my best with the opportunity that came to me.' She added, 'The meanies are out to play. Please be kind.'
Davies replaced Love Island's Dani Dyer, who pulled out due to injury shortly after the launch show. Some viewers have criticised Davies's inclusion due to her professional musical theatre background, having starred in West End productions such as 9 to 5: The Musical, Back to the Future: The Musical, and The Great Gatsby.
One viewer commented on a clip of her performance: 'An amazing dance but she's had an advantage as already performed in a few musicals. Strictly to me is about taking a complete novice like George & Karen and turning them into dancers.' Another wrote: 'Well she was in The Great Gatsby this year..of course she can dance.'
However, many fans have rallied in support. One said: 'Amber, you are amazing! Incredibly talented and completely deserved of all your success. You and Nikita are my winners, no matter what happens.' Another added: 'Wtf. Im shocked at the hate. You Amber were magnificent. The night belonged to you.'
