Trans rights t-shirt slogan removal on Strictly ‘in line with guidelines’ – BBC

The BBC has said the decision to edit a trans rights slogan out of Strictly Come Dancing was “in line with our editorial guidelines”.

The slogan “Protect the Dolls” was edited off a t-shirt worn by House Of The Dragon star Bethany Antonia during Saturday’s episode of the show.

The actress was seen rehearsing an American Smooth with dance partner Nancy Xu in a pre-recorded VT.

In the clip she was shown wearing a plain white T-shirt.

However, in an Instagram video shared by the BBC on October 9, seemingly filmed at the same rehearsal, Antonia can be seen wearing a t-shirt with the visible slogan.

A BBC spokesperson said: “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.”

Protect The Dolls is a slogan in support of transgender women, who are known as “dolls” in the LGBTQ+ community.

A t-shirt bearing the slogan, made by designer Conner Ives, has been worn by stars including Pedro Pascal, Tilda Swinton and singer Troye Sivan.

All proceeds from the sale of the t-shirt, which costs £75, are donated to UK charity Not A Phase, which offers programmes, events and support spaces for the trans community.