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BBC Edits Trans Rights Slogan from Dancer's T-shirt
12 Oct
Summary
- Trans rights slogan 'Protect the Dolls' removed from dancer's shirt.
- BBC cites standard practice to avoid overt branding or slogans.
- Similar edits occurred for political and human rights messages previously.
The BBC has removed a transgender rights slogan from a T-shirt worn by contestant Bethany Antonia during rehearsals for Strictly Come Dancing. The slogan, 'Protect the Dolls', is a symbol of support for trans women and benefits the UK charity Not A Phase. Footage shown on Saturday's broadcast and available on iPlayer featured Antonia wearing a plain white T-shirt, with the slogan edited out.
The broadcaster stated that the edits align with standard editorial guidelines to avoid overt branding or slogans. This practice has been observed previously. In 2017, a T-shirt supporting Jeremy Corbyn was blurred during a video message. More recently, in 2024, a shirt reading 'Trans Rights Are Human Rights' worn by Ricky Wilson appeared to be blurred in certain shots.
The 'Protect the Dolls' T-shirt, designed by Conner Ives, has also been worn by notable figures like Pedro Pascal and Tilda Swinton. Antonia herself has not commented on the decision to edit her attire. The BBC maintains that these adjustments are made irrespective of the specific message or wording on the clothing.
