The BBC has responded after Strictly Come Dancing fans spotted editing of footage of Bethany Antonia, as the slogan removal was described as ‘shameful’ and ‘cowardly’
BBC bosses have found themselves at the centre of a censorship row after editing out a t-shirt slogan worn by Bethany Antonia.
During Saturday night’s Strictly Come Dancing, a clip was aired of Bethany wearing a top with “PROTECT THE DOLLS” written on it as viewers watched her during rehearsals. But later on in the show, the words were removed to make it appear as if the t-shirt was plain white.
The phrase “Protect The Dolls” is a pro-trans slogan which was first written on a top from fashion designer Conner Ives in 2025. Since then been worn by celebrities and has helped to raised hundreds of thousands for charities. The term traces back to the 1980s Black and Latina underground ballroom scene in New York City, where “doll” was used as a term of solidarity for transgender women.
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On X, users hit out. One said: “After posting a video, the BBC quietly replaced it with a new one that doesn’t show her from the front. During the show, they actually blurred out the T-Shirt completely. Absolutely despicable.”
A BBC spokesperson responded, saying: “As is standard practice on any entertainment show on the BBC and in line with our editorial guidelines, 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.”
But that didn’t stop many online responding with annoyance. One viewer said: “Ironically the phrase originated in the ballroom scene decades ago. It’s genuinely pathetic that the BBC refuses to allow anything remotely pro-trans to air. Love Bethany even more though.”
Another fumed: “The decision to digitally scrub the ‘Protect the Dolls’ slogan from Bethany Antonia’s T-shirt during Strictly Come Dancing is a shameful and cowardly act of censorship.”
Stars including Madonna and Mariah Carey have been spotted wearing it, raising money for British trans charity Not A Phase.
A slogan shirt worn on Strictly by actress Jaime Winstone has already been blurred up by the BBC this series.
Much-loved actress Melanie Walters became the second unlucky celebrity to be sent packing on Strictly Come Dancing on Sunday evening.
The judges were divided on who to send home, with Motsi picking to save Melanie but Craig and Shirley picked Shaun, meaning deciding judge Anton had to get involved. He picked Shaun.
In a since-deleted post, Cach Mercer seemed to leak the results on his Instagram. He posted over an hour before the results show began, leaving many fans confused as to what happened.
Some of her co-stars voiced their support after, with Lacey Tuner saying: “We love you Mel!” Pro dancer Lauren Oakley added: “Beautiful lady, beautiful dancer. I will miss you”
Meanwhile, John Nellis commented: “Loved spending time with you, see you soon.” And Carlos added: “We love you Mel!!!! You were an absolutely star!”
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