Stars of Strictly Come Dancing have spoken out after nearly 200 viewers complained about the shows first ever same-sex dance.
The routine between Johannes Radebe and Graziano Di Prima aired on Sunday November 3 during the BBC favourite's result show.
The historical TV moment was hailed by viewers as "beautiful" and inspirational" at the time but it has now come to light that 189 complains were made to the BBC.
In the broadcaster's fortnightly data report , it says that nearly 200 people found it "offensive to feature two men dancing as a pair".
The BBC have defended its decision by saying in a statement to Deadline: "Strictly Come Dancing is an inclusive show and is proud to have been able to facilitate the dance between Johannes and Graziano during the Professionals' dance.
"They are dancers first and foremost, and their sex had no bearing on their routine."
Stars of the dance series have also spoken out in defence of the routine.
Judge Bruno Tonioli tweeted: "It's hard to believe after such progress in society and many other topics going on that over 200 people felt so upset they complained when 2 men danced with each other... I just don't know what to say... Very sad. #bbcstrictly."
Professional dancer Kevin Clifton said: "What on earth were they complaining about? It was ace."
Following the performance earlier this month Johannes, who war partnered with Corrie star Catherine Tyldsley, said he was "beaming with pride".
In an Instagram post alongside a picture of the ground-breaking moment, which was accompanied by a guest performance by singer Emeli Sande, the pro dancer said: "@emelisande sang one of her new songs SHINE and @jasongilkison put us in formation @lubamushtuk @aljazskorjanec always on top form and my dear friend @grazianodiprima beaming with pride.
"This meant the world to so many people I know and love, @bbcstrictly thank you on behalf of us all... #beproud."
The post was inundated with messages including from show host Tess Daly who said: "15 years the show has been on air. That's a long time- in TV years especially! And THIS is just PERFECTION SO MUCH JOY XXXX."
