BBC Faces Backlash Over 'Strictly Come Dancing' Slogan Edit

The BBC has received over 200 complaints concerning the editing of a trans rights slogan from a T-shirt worn by "Strictly Come Dancing" contestant Bethany Antonia. Viewers complained to the UK's media regulator, Ofcom, after the slogan "protect the dolls" was removed from footage of the "House of the Dragon" actress during rehearsals.

The slogan is understood to express solidarity and support for transgender women. The BBC stated that "appropriate steps are taken to reduce the inclusion of any overt branding or slogans that may be present, regardless of the wording or statement in question," citing standard practice and editorial guidelines.

Antonia, 28, addressed the controversy, telling Digital Spy that she wore the T-shirt without fully considering its potential branding association. "The BBC had to do what they had to do when they edited it out, to keep it fair for everybody," she said. "But I stand with my trans family in every way, and they knew what I was thinking when I wore that T-shirt. And that’s all that matters."

Social media users reacted with anger, with some calling the decision "outrageous" and accusing the BBC of becoming "homophobic and transphobic." The controversy follows the BBC's recent decision to cancel "RuPaul's Drag Race" after 11 seasons.

During the live show, Antonia and her professional partner Nancy Xu performed an Argentine Tango to "All The Things She Said." The routine received mixed reviews from the judges, scoring 25 points.