Yahoo News Britain's Got Talent releases statement in full support of Diversity's "heartfelt" performance
Britain's Got Talent has released a statement in full support of Diversity's "heartfelt" performance.
The former winners of the ITV talent show took to the stage during this year's semi-finals to perform a Black Lives Matter-inspired routine, which also reflected on COVID-19 and more of the world's biggest talking points from 2020.
While the performance received a positive reception from the majority, Ofcom confirmed that close to 3000 complaints had been made in relation to the show, with some arguing that the routine was too political for a Saturday night programme.
Now, BGT has come out in support of the performance, with an ITV spokesman stating: "Britain's Got Talent has always been an inclusive show, which showcases diversity and supports strong storytelling in all forms and ITV stands behind the decision to broadcast Diversity's performance on BGT.
"Ashley and the group are a great example of the talent, creativity and diversity of modern Britain and their performance was an authentic, heartfelt response to many of the issues and events which have affected society in 2020."
BGT judge Alesha Dixon also recently came out in full support of Diversity's routine, while denying that she threatened to walk away from the show if it apologised for the performance.
"For the record I never threatened to quit BGT," she tweeted. "I’ve had no conversations with ITV regarding this matter and Katie Hind made up this story, I do however stand by and support @AshleyBanjo and Diversity. #IamNotYourMediaPuppet."
Since the performance, Banjo has revealed that he and other members of the dancing troupe have received abuse online.
When one troll on social media suggested that he and other black stars shouldn't discuss racism, he replied: "For the people sending this: You do not represent or speak for the Great British public. 2. Silence was never and will never be an option. 3. Change is inevitable... Get used to it."
In the comments of the post, Dixon added: ""[They] can kiss my black ass!"
The Britain's Got Talent semi-finals continue on Saturday evenings on ITV.
For more information on how you can support Black Lives Matter, please visit its official website or donate here. Readers can also donate to the UK anti-discrimination group Stand Up To Racism, and the Unite Families & Friends Campaign, which supports those affected by deaths in police, prison and psychiatric custody.
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