BBC Gag Alesha Dixon Opinions

1 month ago 23rd Sep 13:00

BBC bosses have barred 'Strictly Come Dancing' contestants from making negative comments about Alesha Dixon.

Everyone involved with the ballroom dancing show received a memo instructing them how to respond to questions about the controversial decision to replace former judge Arlene Phillips, 66, with Alesha, 30 - which sparked an ageism row and prompted thousands of complaints to the BBC.

A source told Britain's Daily Mirror newspaper: "It was made clear we can't say what we really think. There is a culture of fear. It's as if they are trying to brainwash us.

"It would be funny if so many of us weren't worried about accidentally saying something inappropriate."

The letter is titled 'Strictly Come Dancing - Briefing Note for Dancers, Judges and Celebs'.

It takes the form of a question and answer sheet, and aims to show the hopefuls how to field tricky questions about replacing the choreographer with pop singer Alesha.

"Answers from each celebrity were identical. We lost track of the number of times we were told Arlene was 'part of the Strictly family'. It was embarrassing."

The results of the memo were first seen at a special conference to mark the launch of the show.

A source who attended the show explained: "Answers from each celebrity were identical. We lost track of the number of times we were told Arlene was 'part of the Strictly family'. It was embarrassing."

Stars were even told to refer to Alesha - who won the show as a contestant in 2007 - as a "great performer" who was "a fantastic champion."

The memo continued: "She's going to have empathy as she's been through it herself. She will add a new voice to the panel".

The email also instructed recipients to give no comment to certain questions, including whether the shake-up would put people off watching, if dancers were "unhappy" about the decision and questions about pay.

Alesha's appointment to the judging panel has met with further criticism following her debut on the show last weekend, with over 900 official complaints being lodged against her.

Since the show, many BBC stars including the show's judges and former professional dancers have publicly pledged their support for her.