Strictly Come Dancing contestant Tilly Ramsay has responded to a radio host who called her a “chubby little thing” during his early morning show.
LBC’s Steve Allen, 67, had read out a comment about Ramsay before saying: “Well, she can’t blimming well dance, I’m bored with her already.
“She’s a chubby little thing, isn’t she? Have you noticed? Probably her dad’s (Gordon Ramsay) cooking, I should imagine.”
Ramsay, 19, replied to the comments on her Instagram, saying she “won’t tolerate people that think it’s okay to publicly comment and scrutinise anyone’s weight and appearance”.
“I try not to read and listen to comments and negativity however recently being called out on a national radio station by a 67-year-old man is a step too far.
“Steve please feel free voice your opinions however I draw the line at commenting on my appearance.
“It’s such a shame that someone is trying to make such a positive experience negative.
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“This isn’t the first and definitely won’t be the last comment made about my appearance and I accept that and I’m learning to accept myself.
“But please remember that words can hurt and at the end of the day I am only 19 and I’m so grateful for all the amazing opportunities I have been able to take part in and I understand that being in the public eye obviously comes with it’s own repercussions and I’ve been aware of this from a young age.
“However, I won’t tolerate people that think it’s okay to publicly comment and scrutinise anyone’s weight and appearance.”
She added the caption: “#bekind.”
Fellow Strictly stars rushed to Ramsay’s support, including professional dancer Diane Buswell, who wrote: “Tilly your [sic] a beauty inside and out.
“I think your [sic] so brave to speak up about this, perfectly said I hope people learn from this.
“Just know that we all support you and think your [sic] wonderful xxxx.”
Contestant Rose Ayling-Ellis replied calling her “beautiful”, while Ugo Monye said: “Love ya Tilly”.
Sky News has contacted LBC for comment.