Strictly’s John Whaite says he is proud of the positive impact he is making as one half of the show’s first all-male dance partnership.
John, paired with Johannes Radebe, says he has been humbled by the emotional messages thanking him for showing two men dancing together on television.
He said: “I’ve had thousands of people say they wish they had this kind of representation growing up.
“Parents have said how important it is for kids to grow up in a world where two men dancing on prime-time television is normal.
"There’s been so much support. I said all along we are judged on our dancing as two people – but the significance of our partnership is unquestionable.”
Great British Bake Off winner John, 32, added: “It’s making necessary steps to bring justice to a world where there hasn’t been a lot of justice for gay people.
“A few messaged to say they’ve felt more confidence to come out. Some haven’t ended up very positive for them, but they feel they’ve done the right thing.
“It’s truly humbling. It’s making people realise how important it is to be vulnerable – how that can help other people.”
South African champion dancer Johannes, 34, says partnering John has also helped him to feel accepted.
He said: “It’s been healing for me in many ways. I come to work and it’s inclusive. I’ve dreamed of this moment – now it’s here, it is absolutely gorgeous.”
