Strictly Come Dancing pro dancer Johannes Radebe has apologised to the residents of Blackpool, after he revealed fellow dancers likened Blackpool to “squatter camps”.
In an interview with The Mirror, the dancer said that he grew up watching the Blackpool Dance Festival and had always imagined it to be an impressive place.
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But he claimed that his Strictly co-stars had warned him that it might not be as impressive as he thought – in terms that offended those who call the seaside town home.
“Growing up, for me there’s always been the Blackpool championship… and when you look at Blackpool from the inside, it’s majestic,” he said.
“And you would think it would be in a very posh area as it hosts one of the biggest events in the dancing calendar. And apparently… they’re like the squatter camps.”
In South Africa, “squatter camps” is a term used to describe the shanty towns occupied by those living in extreme poverty.
But now he’s apologised for his remarks, releasing a statement expressing his excitement to visit the town.
“I’m so sorry for any offence I may have caused to the people of Blackpool,” he said. “I’m so honoured to be able to dance in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom this year.”
The comment had caused outrage in Blackpool, as residents rushed to defend their hometown.
Award-winning fish and chip shop owner Virginia Moseley said: “It’s a great town. People from all ages come to Blackpool and they all love it. It’s got all the attractions – the Pleasure Beach and the Illuminations.”
“Blackpool is a fabulous traditional seaside resort. And with over 18 million visitors planned for this year it just goes to show there are lots of people who don’t share [Johannes] views,” said Karl Myhillof of Tiffany’s Hotel.
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Strictly traditionally makes the journey north midway through the competition and the Blackpool Tower Ballroom is where the original Come Dancing series was filmed in the 1970s.
A BBC spokesperson also gave a statement in response to Johannes comments.
“Visiting Blackpool is the absolute highlight of the Strictly calendar,” they said.
“Blackpool welcomes us with open arms and we are honoured to bring two of our most popular shows from the legendary Blackpool Tower Ballroom.”
Johannes was a new addition to the Strictly line up, after appearing on the South African version of the show in 2014. He has not been partnered with a celebrity contestant, but participates in the group dances.
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