Alesha Dixon has defended Britain’s Got Talent’s controversial animal acts.
While performing creatures have always been a hit on the ITV talent show, with acts like Pudsey, Trip Hazard and Matisse the most successful, they have also attracted criticism from animal rights groups.
But while the groups have protested the use of performing animals on television and in movies, BGT judge Alesha thinks it’s important to draw a clear distinction between domesticated pets and wild animals.
“The point is that dogs are domesticated animals,” she told Digital Spy while attending the BRIT Awards in London on this week.
“My theory on anything like that is if an animal is enjoying it, if they’re loving it, and they choose to do it, it’s incomparable to an elephant or a tiger who’s been drugged and forced to do something that they don’t want to do.
“A dog, for example, chooses to sit on your lap. I think with these things it’s kind of common sense.”
Alesha works hard as an animal rights activist – a role which sees her travel to some exotic locations.
One recent trip saw her head to Thailand to raise awareness of the animal abuse that can take place during wildlife vacations.
“I was really, really lucky that I got to go out to Thailand with World Animal Protection, they’re an amazing charity,” she smiled.
“[We’re] trying to encourage the public not to go on holidays where you can go on elephant rides and take selfies with animals. It was fascinating to do. I learned so much. We had such great support and really great feedback.”
Britain’s Got Talent will be returning to screens this spring, with Alesha joined by fellow judges Simon Cowell, David Walliams and Amanda Holden in searching for the perfect act to perform in front of members of the royal family at the Royal Variety Show.
And fans have a lot to look forward to with the new series.
“It’s as crazy and as weird and wonderful as usual,” Alesha laughed. “You’re in for a great show as always.”