Former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips has spoken out against ‘unpleasant’ and ‘depressingly serious’ behaviour from some fans ahead of the final, defending contestants
A Strictly Come Dancing judge has spoken out against what she’s branded “unpleasant” and “depressingly serious” behaviour from some fans, as the glitterball showdown edges ever closer.
Arlene Phillips took to social media ahead of the hotly anticipated final to urge viewers to remember what Strictly is really about – entertainment, joy and the love of dance – rather than bitterness and online pile-ons.
Sharing a photo of this year’s finalists; Amber Davies, Karen Carney and George Clarke, the legendary choreographer didn’t hold back as she addressed the backlash that has surrounded the series.
“Thinking about @bbcstrictly and what a topsy turvy finale it’s going to be,” Arlene began, before adding a pointed reminder.
“I wish everyone could remember this is an entertainment show. Online it has become so unpleasant and so depressingly serious.”
The former Strictly judge, who sat on the panel for six years, went on to tackle head-on one of the show’s most controversial talking points – contestants with previous dance experience.
“Sometimes it seems people forget the @ BBC invites these contestants, all with a mixture of dance histories, they don’t just wander into the competition,” she wrote. “There have always been contestants with some dance training taking part. At what level, it varies.”
Arlene made it clear she believes the tone of criticism has crossed a line in recent years, adding: “The bitterness that now seems to be levelled at those taking part exceeds anything in the past and it really must stop.”
Pointing to past seasons, she reminded fans that prior experience doesn’t guarantee victory. “It’s not even the case that those with prior training always results in a winner,” she said, referencing Layton Williams. “One of the best dancers – he didn’t win but he was fabulous to watch.”
The dance veteran also shone a light on the creative team behind the scenes, praising the world-class choreographers who craft the routines week after week. For Arlene, the heart of Strictly has always been simple. “The main thing every season should be about is the joy of dance and learning ballroom and Latin styles,” she said.
Turning her attention to the finalists, Arlene was keen to celebrate what each brings to the table. Amber Davies, who has faced intense scrutiny due to her musical theatre background, received particularly strong support.
“Yes, Amber is a triple threat and she’s brilliant and she knows what she’s doing,” Arlene wrote. “The hate she has received is totally unfair and has been quite shocking.”
She also praised George Clarke and Karen Carney, calling them “firecrackers” who are “totally deserving” of their place in the final, while giving a shout-out to the professional dancers who have helped bring the routines to life.
As the final looms, Arlene ended with a plea for unity. “Tonight let’s celebrate all of them,” she urged. “Put our love into the atmosphere… and remember for next season to #BeKind.”
With emotions running high and the glitterball within touching distance, it seems one thing is certain – Strictly might be a competition, but for Arlene Phillips, it should never lose its sparkle.
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