‘Strictly Come Dancing' star Oti Mabuse on lack of black dancers: 'It's a shame'

“Strictly Come Dancing” star Oti Mabuse has spoken up against the lack of black dancers in the new season of the show. Mabuse says there are actually a lot of good professional black dancers out there who also deserve a spot on the BBC dance show but find it hard to leave their country due to financial restrictions.

BBC executives have reportedly been faced with criticisms each year every time they present their line-up of dancers for “Strictly Come Dancing,” because they lack professionals who represent Britain’s black community. Now Mabuse has echoed the same sentiment during an exclusive interview with the Daily Star.

“There should be more black dancers on Strictly. It’s a shame as there are so many in South Africa and also in Mozambique and Botswana,” she said.

The 24-year old also revealed why it’s hard for black dancers in general to gain recognition internationally. Mabuse warned of the major problem black professionals from around the world face especially when it comes to financial matters.

“A lot of us don’t leave our country. Some don’t have funds. There are a lot of talented dancers but they can’t get out of the country,” Oti told the Daily Star.

Mabuse, an eight-time South African Latin American Champion, also revealed how these professional black dancers can’t leave the country because of lack of money. She said getting a visa alone is costly and some also don’t know where and how to get a visa. Oti also expressed how thankful she is to be on “Strictly Come Dancing” and said she’s fortunate her parents work hard for her.

Mabuse, who was the first to be introduced in the line-up since the show’s 2004 launch, told the Daily Star that she is determined to win for her country. Oti told the Daily Star that she’s feeling the pressure already to do well but understands that it’s only natural as she’s “representing a country and a continent.”

Oti’s statements came ahead of her performance on “Strictly Come Dancing” this weekend and ahead of the first live show on Friday. Mabuse will showcase her skills in dancing with her partner, boxer Anthony Ogogo.

According to Mirror UK, “Strictly Come Dancing” also faced backlash over its lack of support for same-sex dance partners. CJ de Mooi was reportedly replaced by Jeremy Vine because he had requested to be paired with another man. However, a representative of the show denied his claim saying BBC never approached him to be on the show.

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