Alexandra Burke reacts to Strictly Come Dancing ‘racism’ claims

Alexandra Burke has spoken out about claims of ‘racism’ of Strictly Come Dancing.

The BBC One series has been involved in a supposed ‘race row’ following the early eliminations of non-white contestants.

Last year saw DJ Melvin Odoom, EastEnders actress Tameka Empson and TV presenter Naga Munchetty all eliminated in the first weeks.

Then this year actress Chizzy Akudolu became the first to go before JLS singer Aston Merrygold made a shock early exit too.

Speaking on the The Victoria Derbyshire Show, Alexandra defended the series against the suggestion of racism.

“I don’t think that’s true at all,” she said. “Those kinds of accusations against amazing shows like this I think are wrong.”

Former X Factor winner Alexandra said: “For a black person who is in the industry, for me I’ve had a wonderful nine years of being in this industry and hoping to achieve more with hard work and determination.

“I don’t think it comes down to colour, I don’t see colour when I see music or TV shows.”

She added: “I think that’s so important not to see that because at the end of the day we might be all different colours but we’re all the same, we’re all human.”

Last year Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood also hit back at the suggestion of ‘racism’.

“The colour of someone’s skin doesn’t explain anything. Prove it and I might listen to what the tabloids have said about it,” he said. “But I don’t think the public vote on that basis, and as far as the judges are concerned, the better dancer is always the one that goes through.”

Strictly Come Dancing 2017 returns to TV tonight on BBC One, live from Blackpool.