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Alesha Dixon backs Diversity after 'BGT' dance sparks complaints

Alesha Dixon attending the Virgin TV British Academy Television Awards 2018 held at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London.
Alesha Dixon attending the Virgin TV British Academy Television Awards 2018 (PA)

Alesha Dixon has backed Diversity following the backlash over their Black Lives Matter-themed routine on Britain’s Got Talent, telling trolls they can “kiss my black a**!”

The dance troupe took to the stage on the ITV show at the weekend for an emotional performance that saw them tell the story of the death of George Floyd.

The routine – which saw a figure in police uniform place his knee on lead dancer Ashley Banjo’s neck - divided viewers, and has triggered thousands of complaints to broadcasting watchdog Ofcom.

Members of the troupe have addressed the controversy, with Banjo thanking those that sent “messages of hate and ignorance”, saying that they “highlight exactly what needs to change”.

And a host of stars, including Britain’s Got Talent judges Dixon and Amanda Holden, have also weighed in.

Read more: Ashley Banjo speaks out after reaction to Diversity dance routine

Both responded after Banjo shared a message he had been sent on Instagram that included a picture of himself alongside boxer Anthony Joshua and Formula 1 racer Lewis Hamilton.

It said: "Dear Joshua and Banjo and any other Black public figures. We the Great British Public will only support you if you entertain us and do not say anything about racism."

“The [sic] can kiss my black a**!” wrote Dixon, while Holden shared a picture of a heart.

JLS star Aston Merrygold posted: “It’s like that yeah!

“Guess it’s time to speak louder for the people that can’t quite hear!”

Read more: Alesha Dixon hoping Simon Cowell can join BGT shows via live link

“Enough is enough!! Let’s rise!!!!”, chimed in comedian Judi Love.

Diversity's dance divided audiences. (Syco/Thames)
Diversity's dance divided audiences (Syco/Thames)

Diversity won Britain’s Got Talent in 2009.

Leader Banjo is standing in as a judge on the show while Simon Cowell is recovering from back surgery.