As they rally behind Arlene Phillips’ plea for kindness online, Strictly Come Dancing fans have referred to the current season as the “most toxic yet.”
Strictly Come Dancing fans have made their feelings crystal clear ahead of this weekend’s glittering final – with many branding the current run the “most toxic series yet”.
The backlash comes after former Strictly judge Arlene Phillips hit out at what she described as “unpleasant” and “depressingly serious” behaviour online, urging viewers to remember the show is meant to be entertainment. Now, fans appear to be echoing her sentiments, with social media flooded with messages backing her call for kindness.
The former Strictly judge, who served on the panel for six years, then addressed one of the show’s most contentious topics head-on: contestants with previous dance training.
One viewer acknowledged that tensions had never been this high. They remarked, “Well said Arlene,” and continued.
In the almost 20 years I’ve been watching, I don’t believe I’ve ever seen a more potent series. At the end of the day, it’s a TV show. #Strictly #BeKind”.
Another fan also shared Arlene’s Instagram post, encouraging others to take note of her words. “This Arlene Phillips on Instagram. Heed her words,” they said. “#StrictlyComeDancing needs all the variety and colour that each individual brings to the show. Have your favourites. But respect what everyone brings to this wonderful party. It wouldn’t be the same without them.”
The comments are in response to growing annoyance among viewers who believe that online rows, particularly around contestants’ prior dance training, have overshadowed the fun of Strictly.
This year’s finalists – Amber Davies, Karen Carney and George Clarke – have all found themselves at the centre of heated debate, with Amber receiving particular scrutiny due to her musical theatre background. Arlene previously defended her strongly, describing the criticism as “totally unfair” and “quite shocking”.
Many fans have now rallied to support that message, noting that Strictly has always had contestants with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Actors, performers, and even professional athletes have all danced the show’s history, according to Arlene, who reminded viewers of this fact.
Pointing to past seasons, in her statement, Arlene 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 praised the world-class choreographers who create the routines week after week while also shining a light on the creative team behind the scenes. Strictly has always had a simple heart, according to Arlene. The enjoyment of dancing and learning Latin dance styles should be the focus of each season, she said.
Despite the controversy, there is still a lot of anticipation for the final. The three finalists have each earned a sizable following, and viewers have praised the professionals and choreographers for producing spectacular routines throughout the series.
Some fans worry that the show’s spirit has been lost along the way despite the fierce competition. Several have demanded a reset for the following year, hoping that the focus will return to Strictly’s core values of promoting dance, developing new skills, and bringing people together on a Saturday night.
Source: Mirror
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