Diversity star Ashley Banjo has taken to social media to share an important message about change ahead of his return to Britain’s Got Talent tonight.
The 31-year-old dancer, who is currently filling in for Simon Cowell as a judge on the ITV talent show, will return to the show tonight after facing backlash from viewers over a controversial performance with Diversity.
Earlier this month, Ashley led Diversity in a dramatic dance routine retelling some of the biggest news events of the year, including the killing of Georgie Floyd and coronavirus.
Since the performance aired during the first BGT semi-final on September 5, the episode has received over 24,000 complaints to regulator Ofcom and is on the way to becoming the most complained TV event of the decade.
Ashley Banjo has taken to Instagram account to share a defiant poster (Image: Instagram)
Ashley took to his Instagram account this afternoon to share a defiant message supporting change after suffering weeks of “racist” abuse on social media.
Alongside a shot of himself taking the knee in the routine in the routine – as a homage to the Black Lives Matter movement – Ashley penned: “This is what change looks like.”
He added: ” @itv stand with @diversity_official and we’ve never been prouder. This is in all the national papers today.
“Thank you again to everyone that has supported us. #Diversity “
Ofcom has received over 24,000 complaints since the performance aired on September 5 (Image: ITV)
The black and white picture, which has been printed in papers up and down the country today, carried the slogan: “We are changed by what we see. Just as we are changed when we are seen.”
Underneath was written: “ITV stands by Diversity.”
ITV issued a statement defending Diversity’s performance despite viewer complaints soaring and a drop in ratings following the performance.
The broadcaster also backed the stand-in judge and his troupe, saying BGT had always been a show that supports diversity and inclusivity.
Ashley is currently filling in for Simon Cowell as a judge on BGT (Image: ITV)
An ITV spokesman: “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.”
Despite the complaints almost surpassing Ofcom’s most complained about TV event, the watchdog have said they will not be investigating the performance as it does not breach guidelines.
Ashley said that while he had received some criticism for the performance online, the hate was nothing compared to the positive reviews he’d been sent.
He also claimed that the backlash showed him how much the conversation he and his Diversity pals sparked needed to be had.
Britain’s Got Talent continues on ITV tonight at 8pm
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
