Strictly Come Dancing’s Kevin Clifton has said he would be happy to be part of a same-sex couple on the BBC One show.
The professional was asked by a fan of the ballroom dancing show what he thinks of the debate and whether he’d be open to dancing with another man.
The 35-year-old wrote on Twitter: “Just to be clear, I’m not involved in any of these decisions. But if that’s what they wanted then I’d have no problem with it.”
Strictly has previously confirmed it has “no plans” to include same-sex couples on the show this year, with a rep for the series saying: “Strictly has chosen the longstanding ballroom dancing format of mixed-sex couples.”
Read more: Strictly Come Dancing’s Vick Hope reveals nerves over show
Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood has said the BBC should make the move on the hit show.
Another previous contestant, Rev Richard Coles, has argued that it makes “no sense” that anyone would resist having dancers of the same gender taking to the floor together.
Susan Calman, who is openly gay, was criticised by some on social media last year for not having a female pro dance partner.
Susan, who was partnered with Kevin, hit back: “I wanted to dance with a man. I am not being held hostage by the BBC. I’m still well gay and proud of it.”
Meanwhile, five celebrity contestants have been confirmed for Strictly so far.
Television presenter and campaigner Katie Piper, Steps singer Faye Tozer and Red Dwarf actor Danny John-Jules were the first trio to be confirmed.
YouTuber Joe Suggs and Capital FM DJ Vick Hope followed.
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The signing of Joe, 26, an internet senstation who is the brother of vlogger Zoella has generated particular interest as it’s divided Strictly viewers.
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Some younger viewers are thrilled to see Joe – who has more than eight million YouTube subscribers – taking part, while older viewers have confessed to not knowing who he is.
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Kevin defended Joe’s signing on Twitter, saying: “The reason I think @Joe_Sugg is such a great signing for @bbcstrictly is he has a HUGE young following (over 8 million YouTube subscribers) that because of him may watch Strictly and become dance fans.
“So much potential for inspiring kids to dance here.”
Strictly returns to BBC One this autumn.
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