Strictly Come Dancing professional Neil Jones has responded with a four-word message after being accused of "groping" fellow dancer Amy Dowden during the show.
Footage from the programme sparked widespread discussion over the weekend, with some viewers claiming a moment on camera made Dowden look "uncomfortable".
What Happened on the Show
During the broadcast, viewers noticed Jones placing his hand on Dowden's waist as the professionals gathered upstairs following Vito and Lacey's performance. Many observed that Dowden appeared to move away and huddle closer to fellow professional dancer Alexis Warr, which prompted a range of theories on social media.
One person wrote on X: "Amy Dowden looks 'uncomfortable' as Neil Jones holds her waist in awkward Strictly clip." Another noted: "Awkward moments like this deserve a closer look. Hopefully, everyone involved is treated fairly and respectfully."
Neil Jones and Amy Dowden's Response
In response to the concerns raised, Jones and Dowden posted a video on Instagram. Jones shared the clip with the caption "#nocomment" and included the four-word hashtag "friends for 20 years" to indicate there is no issue between them.
The video showed Dowden touching Jones's waist instead as she danced around him. Jones then jokingly moved closer to Alexis, apparently making light of the rumours.
Support from Fans and the Strictly Family
The clip made clear that the pair are close friends, and various members of the Strictly family voiced their support. It has since been liked thousands of times and generated considerable conversation, with many people taking to the comments.
One said: "Well played." Another added: "Love this! Mic drop moment. That's how to deal with fabricated nonsense." A third replied: "And that's how you stop bad rumours." A fourth commented: "Love it." One more responded: "Haha, was waiting for something like this. Well done."
Many fans were quick to support the pair and wish them well, highlighting that what happens behind the scenes is not always apparent to viewers.
