Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas backs Dr Ranj's call for same-sex couples on the show

The new series starts on BBC One is September
Natasha Sporn22 August 2018

Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas has revealed she “wouldn’t be opposed” to same-sex couples on the show.

The head judge, who took over from Len Goodman last year, responded to recent reports that This Morning star Dr Ranj Singh wanted to dance with a male professional but “wasn’t allowed” during a guest appearance on Loose Women.

She told the show: “I think everything in its good time. I wouldn’t be opposed to him dancing with another man.

“We have same sex competitions in my industry. It’s movement to music at the end of the day.

On side: Shirley Ballas has has said she wouldn't mind seeing a same-sex couple on Strictly
PA

"When I’m teaching a lecture, I have the little girls do the boys part, the little boys do the girls part so they understand about lead and follow and what to expect. It’s two human beings that are moving to music at the end of the day, you’re judging the talent.”

The TV doctor, who was unveiled as a contestant earlier this month, told the Daily Mirror that he would like to dance with another man because it is “incredibly important,” but the BBC later reiterated that there are no plans to introduce same-sex couples.

Partner: Dr Ranj has previously said that he would like to dance in a same-sex couple 
Jeff Spicer/Getty Images

As well as a debate over same-sex couples, some fans have criticised the calibre of this year’s line-up.

Ballas said: “I don’t think the BBC ever get it wrong. That’s just my feeling. They gave me a chance last year [as Head Judge] and I got a lot of abuse online and people didn’t even know me or give me half a chance. This year is completely different. I feel embraced, I feel loved.

“This is exactly what’s going to happen with this - I believe - diverse panel of beautiful people, all with a story. People need to give it a chance. Everybody has their opinions but, you know, they’re just opinions at the end of the day.”

​Ballas also defended Ashley Roberts and Faye Tozer from claims of being “too skilled” for the show, pointing out that “bopping from foot to foot” doesn’t equate with Ballroom and Latin dances.

Loose Women airs weekdays at 12.30pm on ITV. Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One next month.

Strictly Come Dancing 2018 Contestants - In pictures

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