Rob Rinder has backed Nicola Adams to win ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.
The 42-year-old TV barrister – who competed on the show in 2016 – has praised the BBC Latin and ballroom competition for including its first same-sex pairing, and he hopes the former boxer triumphs on the series.
He told RadioTimes.com: "I’m thrilled that Nicola is taking part this year. Originally, I made the mistake and it was a big mistake, which I subsequently corrected. I made the mistake saying that I didn’t think same-sex couples would necessarily make a massive social difference, but I’ve totally changed my mind and I’m really excited for her."
The ‘Judge Rinder’ star’s "mistake" refers to his previous comments in 2017, which came after comedienne Susan Calman was trolled online for dancing with a man, despite being openly gay.
He wrote at the time: "Would it be a big step forward for the LGBTQI community if there were same-sex couples on Strictly? Do me a favour! It would not improve the life of anybody to see a Scottish comedian doing jazz hands with another almost-certainly-not-gay woman on TV.
"There are plenty of organisations making a real difference to the lives of gay people around the country that do need our help, so why undermine the wonder of Strictly by politicising it."
But he later took back his comments.
Rob now believes Nicola’s appearance could help those feeling underrepresented in the community, as they will be able to identify themselves with someone on screen.
He continued: "It may not feel much to some people, but the gay representation is enormously important. Some people may not understand that, but if you grew up and you never had your normal reflected back at you in your living room, where it’s a place of joy – and ‘Strictly’ is the only programme that galvanises people in that way – [this will impact on you]. And so people sitting round can see Nicola delighting and being judged purely on her dancing."