Paul O’Grady has said he wants to see same-sex couples on Strictly Come Dancing.
The BBC has previously said there are currently “no plans” to change its mixed-sex couple format.
But TV presenter Paul, 63, believes same-sex couples could “liven up” the competition series and admitted he thinks it’s “ridiculous” that the show has not included them yet.
Read more: Paul O’Grady working on new doc with Great Ormond Street Hospital
While discussing his brand new series of Blind Date, which will feature same-sex couples, Paul said he wants Strictly to do the same.
He told The Mirror: “We’ve brought it into modern times. We’ve got same-sex couples.
“They should have them on Strictly, it’s ridiculous.”
“The only dance two men should never do is the tango,” the star continued. “It’s two fellas vying for position of top dog. It’s masculine and aggressive, the proper Argentinian tango.”
And Paul isn’t the only person who believes there should be same-sex couples in the competition.
Judge Craig Revel Horwood has previously said the BBC should make the move and predicted it will happen soon.
He told ITV’s Lorraine last year: “I think same-sex couples can exist!
“I hope so, I really hope so. In the world of competition there are same-sex couples. So there’s no reason why that can’t happen.”
Head judge Shirley Ballas said she “couldn’t think of anything more exciting” than having same-sex couples on the show.
She told Good Morning Britain last month: “They’re just about to have the final of the Italian version of Strictly. A same-sex couple, two men, made the final.
“I think it’s spectacular. I think things are changing. I couldn’t think of anything more exciting. I’m for it.”
Don’t miss out: Three steps to ensure you see all ED!’s latest news on Facebook
Ex-contestant Rev Richard Coles has also argued it made “no sense” that anyone would resist having dancers of the same gender taking to the floor together.
A statement from Strictly in 2017 said: “Strictly has chosen the traditional format of mixed-sex couples and at the moment we have no plans to introduce same-sex couples in the competition.”
Would you like to see same-sex couples on Strictly? Leave us a comment onour Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think!