Former Strictly Come Dancing judge Dame Arlene Phillips has shared her opinion on social media following Alison Hammond's public apology after 'condoning' crowds singing over theatre performers on ITV's This Morning last week.
Dame Arlene was a judge on Strictly Come Dancing from the show’s first season in 2004 until 2008 and has thanked Alison for her recent apology, however said that she has "no idea" what it is like for the theatre performers.
It comes after the performance of The Bodyguard had to be scrapped in Manchester due to people singing in the crowd singing and shouting over the cast. Alison, 46, said in a statement that she is 'truly sorry' following her comments made on the Wednesday, April 5 segment on This Morning, adding that she has the 'utmost respect' for the talented theatre performers.
Dame Arlene retweeted Alison's apology on April 9, adding: "Alison thank you for your apology but I would just like to say , you have no idea what it is really like for those performers in the shows where the songs are popular hits and certain members of the audience feel entitled to join in."
Alison's statement said: "After reflection and the comments I made on Wednesday's show I want to apologise to anyone who I offended especially the incredibly talented theatre performers, who I have the upmost respect for.
"I had no idea the level of disruption audiences were causing and tried to make light of the topic on Wednesday's show, and for that I'm truly sorry. I am a great supporter of theatre and the arts and would never sing at the top of my lungs at any
performance, was wrong in what I said and l've given this a lot of thought over the past few days and believe I was wrong.
"On Thursday evening I attended a performance of the GBBO the musical which I absolutely loved and gave a standing ovation, theatre is a magical experience for me and my family.
"I want to use my platform for good as always and want to stand up with the performers, Front of house and theatre staff especially after seeing what happened at The Bodyguard in Manchester which has made me sick to my stomach."
She added: "Once again I am truly sorry but trust me I will do better in the future."
Alison's apology was well received by her fans as they flooded the comment section with support. Louis Staples said: "Everyone makes mistakes queen!"
Les Dennis commented: "Good on you Alison."
Another Twitter user said: "Thank you for apologising and realising you was wrong in what you said and how you reacted . We all make mistakes. Credit to you that you have made this statement and hopefully Vanessa and Dermot feel the same as you.
They added: "Sending you our love."
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