Laila Rouass Forgives Dance Partner

1 month ago 13th Oct 13:00

Laila Rouass has forgiven her 'Strictly Come Dancing' partner for describing her with a racist slur.

A race row has erupted over whether professional dancer Anton Du Beke should be sacked by the BBC for saying the 'Footballer's Wives' actress - who is of Moroccan heritage - looked "like a P**i" after she'd had a spray tan.

The remarks were made off camera, and Laila said she has since put the whole issue behind her.

She said to New! magazine: "It was said in jest and he's said sorry and it's been accepted.

He's a real gentleman and I want people to know that.

"It happened a few weeks ago and we've moved on since then. We've done four dances since then and we'd like to just put it behind us."

'Strictly' judge Craig Revel Horwood has also spoken out to defend Anton, whose actions have prompted 995 complaints to the BBC from angry viewers.

Craig said: "I've never heard him say anything like that before and it's so unlike him. He's such a nice bloke and I think this is a case of something being taken out of context and snowballing into a massive thing."

I am not a racist and I do not use racist language. During our rehearsals, Laila and I have exchanged a great deal of banter - entirely in jest - and two weeks ago, there was an occasion where this term was used between the two of us.

Anton has also issued his own apology for the incident, saying: "I am not a racist and I do not use racist language. During our rehearsals, Laila and I have exchanged a great deal of banter - entirely in jest - and two weeks ago, there was an occasion where this term was used between the two of us."

Anton's outspoken views have caused controversy before. Ahead of the present series of 'Strictly', he asked Laila, if she was a "terrorist" and Last year, he said he felt fat people "should all be shot".