AShley Banjo on BGT
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BGT SPOILERS: Ashley Banjo all smiles as he returns to stage after Diversity backlash

A recent performance sparked over 15,000 complaints

BGT star Ashley Banjo is all smiles tonight as he returns after the recent Diversity backlash.

The dancer, who is filling in for Simon Cowell during the semi-finals, along with his Diversity co-stars have faced criticism for their Black Lives Matter performance.

The powerful routine has sparked over 15,000 Ofcom complaints.

BGT Diversity
Diversity’s Black Lives Matter performance sparked Ofcom complaints (Credit: ITV)

Read more: BGT: Ashley Banjo supported by Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon after backlash over performance

The performance recreated a white police officer kneeling on Ashley, which was in reference to the death of George Floyd in America.

Mr Floyd died after white officer Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for eight minutes.

The routine also featured backing dancers dressed in riot gear while the group also took the knee during it.

Ashley Banjo hits back

The dancer recently spoke out against the criticism and defended the routine, saying “silence was never and will never be an option”.

Ashley Banjo
Ashley Banjo is all smiles on BGT tonight (Credit: Dymond/Thames/Syco/Shutterstock)

Despite the backlash, Ashley looked unfazed as he joined his fellow judges during tonight’s second semi-final show, which is pre-recorded.

Meanwhile, earlier this week, judges Alesha Dixon and Amanda Holden showed their support for Diversity.

Ashley recently hit back at a post which told himself, Anthony Joshua and Lewis Hamilton to stop talking about racism.

Seemingly created by a troll, the post said: “Dear Joshua, Hamilton and Banjo and any other Black public figures.

“We the Great British Public will only support you if you entertain us and do not say anything about racism.

Ashley Banjo on BGT
Ashley Banjo recreated the murder of George Floyd during the BGT performance (Credit: ITV)

“Thank you for your understanding.”

Meanwhile, Ashley said: “For the people sending this: 1. You do not represent or speak for the Great British public.

Silence was never and will never be an option

“2. Silence was never and will never be an option. 3. Change is inevitable… Get used to it. #Diversity.”

What did Alesha and Amanda say?

In the comments section, Amanda posted a heart emoji.

Meanwhile, Alesha wrote: “They can kiss my black ass!”

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What did you think of the performance? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know.


Rebecca Carter
Associate Editor (News)