Strictly Come Dancing judge Motsi Mabuse has hit back at cruel allegations that she was chosen for the job because of her skin colour.
Motsi lashed out after Dancing on Ice judge Louie Spence claimed she is a "nobody" and only landed the job as part of a "box ticking" exercise because she is black.
But South African Motsi, 38, dismissed his offensive view as she expressed it would be "really sad" if the colour of her skin was the only reason she got the top job on Strictly.
The Strictly star told The Sun : "It would be really sad if someone chose me for my colour only.
"I think a person of colour in any situation should be qualified to do the job. Not just because of the colour of their skin.
"You’re always going to have someone attacking you in some way. But it’s weird from someone who’s never met you, I thought it was funny. But there is already a woman of colour in this show — Oti."
The dancing queen made her debut on the series on Saturday following the launch episode two weeks ago.
However, judge Bruce Tonioli has suggested that former judge Darcey could make a return to the show.
Motsi replaced Darcey, who revealed she was stepping down in April after seven years as a judge.
Speaking of her new role on Instagram , Motsi said: "I am absolutely thrilled and overjoyed to be joining the @bbcstrictly judging panel.
"I have so much respect and admiration for the other three judges and hope to add my own bit of sparkle to the show.
"I can't wait to get started! @letsdance dance has always and will always have a place in my heart' I grew up with @letsdance and learned so much, so don't worry I am not going anywhere soon and November I will be certainly our first tour!!".
