‘Strictly Come Dancing’ star Tilly Ramsay
(Picture: BBC)Radio host Steve Allen has sent a private apology to Strictly Come Dancing contestant Tilly Ramsay after describing her as a “chubby little thing” live on air.
Allen, 67, who presents a show on LBC, faced criticism after remarking on the 19-year-old’s appearance on the show, saying “she can’t blimming well dance, I’m bored with her already”.
He added: “She’s a chubby little thing, isn’t she? Have you noticed? Probably her dad’s cooking, I should imagine.”
Ramsay, who is also the daughter of TV chef Gordon Ramsay, shared the audio of Allen’s sniping on Instagram and criticised him for his remarks, saying she “won’t tolerate people that think it’s OK to publicly comment and scrutinise anyone’s weight and appearance”.
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Allen contacted her earlier this week to issue an apology, the PA news agency said.
After Tilly spoke out about Allen’s comments last week, she received a number of messages of support from other celebrities and members of the public.
Former Love Island star Dr Alex George, who was appointed a youth mental health ambassador for the Government earlier this year, criticised Allen’s comments.
He shared a screenshot of an email he sent to LBC about the incident on Instagram and wrote: “I am absolutely horrified by these remarks. It is widely recognised just how damaging such comments about someone’s weight are and the effect they can have on an individual’s mental health.
“We must not only think of the effect on Tilly here, which I can imagine could be significant, but also the potential impact to listeners of the show.”
Meanwhile, Strictly’s It Takes Two presenter Janette Manrara wrote: “How fast we forget what hurtful comments can do for someone’s mental health. You are a POWERFUL young lady! Wear your crown w/ your head held high.”
Professional dancer Dianne Buswell wrote: “Tilly your a beauty inside and out. I think your so brave to speak up about this, perfectly said I hope people learn from this.
“Just know that we all support you and think your wonderful xxxx.”
And Fred Sirieix, of First Dates fame commented: “What an idiot he is Tilly! His type are and will always be around. Let them talk and keep dancing xxx”.
Jason Manford said:
And a message appeared in Piccadilly Circus in support of the star:
Saturday’s episode of Strictly saw Ramsay secure third place on the leaderboard with 36 points.
After her dance, she spoke of her joy after a “difficult week of training”.
Indy100 has contacted LBC to comment on this story.
