Bethany Antonia has spoken out about Strictly's censorship row after they edited out her T-shirt slogan in support of trans rights.
The BBC show had shared a clip from rehearsals on social media of the House Of The Dragon actress, 28, wearing the top which had the phrase 'protect the dolls' on the front.
However, when the rehearsals were shown during the video tape on a live show earlier this month, it had been edited out.
The slogan is used to show solidarity, support and a demand for safety and visibility for transgender women.
Giving her take on the edit, Bethany told Digital Spy: 'I think I made a choice to wear that T-shirt without considering the fact that it was linked to a charity, and that it was linked to what some people consider a brand.
'The BBC had to do what they had to do when they edited it out, to keep it fair for everybody.
Bethany Antonia has spoken out about Strictly's censorship row after they edited out her T-shirt slogan in support of trans rights
The BBC show had shared a clip from rehearsals on social media of the House Of The Dragon actress, 28, wearing the top which had the phrase 'protect the dolls' on the front
However, when the rehearsals were shown during the video tape on a live show earlier this month, it had been edited out
'But I stand with my trans family in every way, and they knew what I was thinking when I wore that T-shirt. And that’s all that matters.'
Furious fans took to X at the time, calling the decision to blur out the slogan 'outrageous'.
They wrote: 'Deeply disappointed. But unfortunately not surprised, the BBC is getting more homophobic and transphobic by the day it seems. The whole country is.'
'I don't watch Strictly but this is outrageous! F*****g hell. Axe Drag Race and now going out of your way to hide 'Protect The Dolls' message is absolutely unforgivable.'
Last month it was announced that the BBC had axed RuPaul's Drag Race after 11 series.
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.'
During Saturday's show, the actor and Nancy Xu danced an Argentine Tango to All The Things She Said by Harrison after being saved by the judges following a dance off against Dame Sarah Storey last week.
The women received a mixed bag of feedback for their efforts, with Craig remarking that it was 'off-balance' and 'needed more intention and attack', while Anton praised them for creating 'a great atmosphere and story' but warned it was 'a little too considered and hesitant'.
Bethany and Nancy scored 25 points for their routine.
Furious fans took to X, calling the decision to blur out the slogan 'outrageous'
During Saturday's show, the actor and Nancy Xu danced an Argentine Tango to All The Things She Said by Harrison after being saved by the judges last week
