RuPaul's Drag Race UK sensation Tayce has delivered a stunning verdict on Strictly Come Dancing, exposing what she calls a fundamental 'diversity problem' within the BBC's flagship entertainment show.
The Welsh drag superstar, known for her electrifying performances and sharp wit, revealed she was formally approached to join the glitterball competition but made the conscious decision to reject the opportunity.
'Toxic' Judging Culture Exposed
In an explosive interview on the Where's the Joy? podcast, Tayce didn't hold back her criticism of the show's judging panel. She described the atmosphere as 'toxic' and expressed particular concern about how head judge Shirley Ballas' comments might affect contestants' mental health.
'I just feel like it's a bit toxic, the way that they speak to the contestants sometimes,' Tayce stated. 'I just feel like Shirley, I don't know, she's a bit... I don't know if I could handle that.'
The Diversity Deficit
Tayce pinpointed the show's lack of representation as a core issue, questioning why Strictly has never featured a drag performer in its main lineup despite the art form's massive popularity in British culture.
'I feel like there's a bit of a diversity issue there,' she declared. 'Why hasn't there been a drag queen on that show? It's the biggest show in the UK. It just doesn't make sense to me.'
A Conscious Rejection
The revelation that producers actively sought Tayce for the show makes her criticism particularly significant. Her decision to turn down the opportunity speaks volumes about her principles and her assessment of the show's environment.
This isn't the first time Strictly has faced scrutiny over its diversity record and judging style, but coming from a high-profile entertainer who was directly courted by the show, these comments carry substantial weight and are likely to reignite the debate about inclusivity in mainstream television.
