Former Coronation Street star Catherine Tyldesley has leapt to the defence of Strictly Come Dancing after some viewers complained about the latest show.
Three of the BBC One show’s male professional dancers wore wigs and high heels while performing a medley of songs from the musical Priscilla Queen Of The Desert on Saturday.
Giovanni Pernice, Gorka Marquez and Johannes Radebe, with whom Catherine was partnered when she appeared on the show herself last year, danced alongside a giant pink stiletto.
But the routine didn't go down well with some viewers, some of whom lodged complaints with the broadcaster, while others threatened to 'stop watching'.
The Walkden actress has now taken to Instagram, branding those who complained 'homophobic massive twonks' following the furore.
Posting on Instagram, Catherine wrote: "Confused’ their grandchildren my arse!!! These ‘complaints’ are from homophobic massive twonks trying to train their kids/grandchildren up the same way.
"Strictly is inclusive... of EVERYONE. EVERY human being has a right to be present AND represented.
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"Take your ridiculous homophobic complaints and plant them in some mud... maybe the rain will wash away your judgemental sh*te.
"Further more this entire routine and all dancers in it were a Joy to behold, talented beyond words and lit up our screens in what has been a terrible year for many.
"Stop putting fearful clouds in front of the brightest of stars!!!"
The BBC has also defended the show, posting on its website: “It was intended to be a fun and entertaining musicals dance for our viewers who are used to and expect Strictly to be glamorous.
“We feel that it’s important to allow the choreographers and professional dancers to exercise creative freedom when putting together routines for a programme of this nature.
“Strictly is an inclusive show and we always ensure that the programme’s content is appropriate.”
Meanwhile Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood has said critics of the performance should “turn the TV off”.
He told the PA news agency: “I think they are ridiculous. If you can’t grow with society then turn it off.
"It’s crazy. You are always going to come into problems with someone complaining about something. But there was nothing.”
He added: “I’m sorry but this is a part of real life and if you are not going to open your eyes up to it then turn the TV off.”
