The BBC has given its verdict after complaints were logged concerning a same-sex pairing on Strictly Come Dancing.
The broadcaster stood by its flagship dance show after homophobic complaints were registered over the historic pairing of Olympic boxer Nicola Adams and pro Katya Jones.
Nicola and Katya were the show's first competing same-sex couple, winning a flood of public acclaim.
They unfortunately had to quit the competition early due to Covid concerns, before returning for a last dance during the final.
The complaints referred specifically to the December 19 final, which the BBC's Executive Complaints Unit (ECU) said had been made over the alleged "blatant projection of homosexuality."
While the BBC did not confirm the exact number of complaints, the corporation did confirm that they were "not upheld."
And even though the response to their pairing was largely positive, Nicola was aware that there were those who felt uncomfortable with a same-sex couple on their screens.
"This is 2020. We have to move with the times," she said.
"I've been through my mum and dad separating, domestic violence, back injuries, having to look after my brother when I was 13 when my mum had meningitis.
"So someone's going to comment on Twitter? It’s nothing, it won't faze me at all.
"If they don't like it, they’re going to have to deal with it or switch to another channel."
When the BBC approached her for the show, Nicola negotiated to dance with another woman because it "felt more comfortable."
Addressing her early exit, Nicola penned a message to fans reading: "Hey guys! I'm absolutely devastated my Strictly journey has come to an end so soon.
"I had so much more to give and so many people to win this for!
"But I just want to say a huge thank you to Katya for being the best dance partner anyone could ask for. She pushed me way out of my comfort zone and it's been an incredible experience."
Katya added: "Dancing with Nicola has been an absolute inspiration. She's given her all each and every week and we were so excited to create more dances in the competition.
"Of course, I'm devastated to leave this way but I've made a friend for life and loved every moment of this special journey. I'd like to wish good luck to all the remaining couples!"
The series also received around 150 complaints over a professional drag routine inspired by Priscilla: Queen of the Desert, while a 2019 performance by two male pros, Johannes Radebe and Graziano Di Prima, sparked upwards of 200.
You can watch the last series of Strictly Come Dancing on BBC iPlayer.
