Strictly Come Dancing contestant Amber Davies has made a public plea for kindness after receiving what she described as 'vile' comments from some viewers of the BBC dance competition.
West End Experience Sparks Unfair Advantage Claims
The 29-year-old former Love Island star joined the show as a last-minute replacement for the injured Dani Dyer. However, her background in West End theatre, including roles in musicals, has led to a section of the audience claiming she has an unfair advantage over other celebrities.
This criticism intensified after she and her professional partner, Nikita Kuzmin, continued their streak of achieving perfect scores of 40 out of 40. Responding to a clip of their Charleston to 'Sit Down, You're Rockin' The Boat' on Instagram, Amber directly addressed the online backlash.
'It's Really Just a Television Show': Amber's Emotional Plea
In a comment posted on Saturday, December 7, 2025, Amber wrote: 'Guys, please.. it really is just a television show. I wasn't even supposed to be in the comp.'
She emphasised the physical and mental toll of the competition, stating: 'You have no idea what we put our mind and body through for this experience.. I'm really just trying my best with the opportunity that came to me.' She concluded by thanking those who had left supportive messages.
Fans Rally in Defence of the Strictly Star
The plea prompted an immediate wave of support from fans on social media, who condemned the negativity. One supporter, @poppyapril, commented: 'You shouldn't have to explain yourself... You have been genuinely incredible & great entertainment.'
Another fan, @leicester_teacher, pointed out the recurring nature of the debate, writing: 'I am soooo bored, every year of "she/he is a trained dancer" comments. Nowhere has it ever been said that Strictly is for non dancers.'
On X (formerly Twitter), user @paradiseieah supported Amber, stating the need for critics to 'take a step back' and remember 'it's an entertainment show at the end of the day.'
Quarter-Final Tensions as Competition Nears Its End
The incident comes as Strictly Come Dancing enters its crucial quarter-final stage, with the grand final scheduled for December 20. In the latest episode, the competition remained tight among the other four remaining couples.
EastEnders actress Balvinder Sopal and her partner Julian Caillon, internet star George Clarke with Alexis Warr, and soap actor Lewis Cope with Katya Jones were all tied on 35 points.
Balvinder Sopal had an emotionally charged night, breaking down in tears after receiving her highest score to date on the show. This followed her and Julian making Strictly history by becoming the first couple ever to survive five dance-offs.
The focus now shifts to the upcoming semi-final, with Amber Davies hoping the conversation will centre on dance rather than division.
