BBC slapped with 200+ complaints after editing of Strictly star Bethany Antonia’s pro-trans T-shirt sparks censorship row

A clip featuring the visible text was initially shared on social media.

However, when the same rehearsal footage aired during the live programme, the wording had been entirely removed, which made it appear as if Ms Antonia was wearing a plain white top.

Eagle-eyed viewers promptly noticed the alteration and accused the corporation of deliberate censorship, with critics branding the move “despicable.”

In response to the backlash, a BBC spokesperson insisted that the editing decision was entirely routine.

The corporation’s statement read: “As is standard practice on any entertainment show on the BBC and in line with our editorial guidelines, appropriate steps are taken to reduce the inclusion of any overt branding or slogans that may be present, regardless of the wording or statement in question.”

The broadcaster emphasised that its approach applied uniformly to all visible branding and messaging on entertainment programmes, irrespective of the content or sentiment expressed.

The BBC’s complaints page confirmed it had received reports specifically regarding the obscuring of the T-shirt text in the training room footage.

Despite the volume of complaints, the corporation stood by its position that “appropriate steps” had been taken.

Ms Antonia herself backed the BBC’s handling of the situation when she addressed the controversy over the weekend.

Speaking to Digital Spy, she said: “I think I made a choice to wear that T-shirt without considering the fact that it was linked to a charity, and that it was linked to what some people consider a brand.”

She added: “The BBC had to do what they had to do when they edited it out, to keep it fair for everybody.”

The actress nonetheless said it didn’t dampen her feelings toward the cause. “But I stand with my trans family in every way, and they knew what I was thinking when I wore that T-shirt. And that’s all that matters,” she told the outlet.

Ms Antonia is paired with professional dancer Nancy Xu in this series and has previously spoken about the personal significance of competing in a same-sex partnership.

The “Protect the Dolls” phrase originated in the 1980s ballroom scene and was turned into a garment by American fashion designer Conner Ives in 2025.

Sales of the T-shirt raise funds for Not A Phase, a British transgender charity. High-profile figures including Madonna, Mariah Carey and Pedro Pascal have all been photographed wearing it.

It’s not the only time in recent weeks that the BBC has come under fire from members of the LGBTQ+ community following its editorial decisions.

Two University Challenge contestants branded the corporation “Orwellian” for deciding to edit a Pride flag pin badge out of an instalment of the quiz show.

Samuel Carlier, who studies astrophysics at the University of Leicester, and Emmeline Hague-Wright, a history student, wore pins displaying the progressive Pride flag, the bisexual Pride flag and a rainbow feather during filming earlier this year.

In response, the BBC issued a similar statement, telling GB News: “In line with our editorial guidelines, we advise that no badges, flags, emblems or symbols are worn or visible during filming, along with clothing with obvious branding or slogans.

“If such items are not removed for any reason, then a decision is made between the programme makers and the BBC regarding any edits to the programme.”