YOU TILLY OLD FOOL
Strictly stars and fans defend Tilly Ramsay after she was branded ‘chubby’ by LBC host Steve Allen
STRICTLY celebs and pro dancers have rallied to support Tilly Ramsay after a radio presenter branded her a “chubby little thing” live on air.
The daughter of chef Gordon Ramsay also blasted LBC Radio’s Steve Allen, who made the cruel remark, reminding him that, “Words can hurt”.
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Tilly, 19, immediately took to Instagram where she posted a lengthy statement slamming the 67-year-old breakfast show DJ.
In her post, she said she would “draw the line” at anyone making fun of her appearance and that she “won’t tolerate” nasty remarks.
Yesterday, Steve said: “She can’t blooming well dance. I’m bored of her already. She’s a chubby little thing, isn’t she, have you noticed? Probably her dad’s cooking, I should imagine.”
Tilly, who is partnered with Nikita Kuzmin, 23, and is fully supported on the show by dad Gordon and mum Tana, hit back straight away.
She wrote: “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.
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‘Some people are nasty’
“Steve please feel free to 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.
“This isn’t the first and definitely won’t be the last comment made about my appearance. But please remember that words can hurt and at the end of the day I am only 19.
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“I understand that being in the public eye obviously comes with its own repercussions and I’ve been aware of this from a young age. However, I won’t tolerate people that think it’s OK to publicly comment and scrutinise anyone’s weight and appearance.”
Tilly, who is the youngest competitor in the new series and one of the youngest in the show’s 17-year history, received an outpouring of support on social media.
One comment read: “You are beautiful inside and out Tilly! Remember people like him say those things because of their own insecurities and problems, don’t listen to them, and do you, because you are amazing, girl.”
Fellow Strictly star Oti Mabuse, 31, wrote: “What on earth? Love you @tillyramsay some people just have no regard for others.”
Oti’s dance partner, former rugby star Ugo Monye, 38, added: “Love ya Tilly.”
Pro dancer Giovanni Pernice, 31, wrote: “Some people are very nasty! Don’t listen to this c**p.”
Some people are very nasty! Don’t listen to this c**p.
Giovanni Pernice
Fellow Strictly competitor, former Bake Off winner John Whaite, 32, said: “He’s a piece of old sandpaper love, worn and used and has nothing to offer the world. And his vicious scratching has only left you polished and more fabulous. Love you.”
Pro Dianne Buswell, 32, said: “Tilly you are a beauty inside and out. I think you are so brave to speak up about this, perfectly said.” Dancer Janette Manrara, 37, added: “How fast we forget what hurtful comments can do for someone’s mental health. You are a powerful young lady! Wear your crown with your head held high.”
Dad Gordon did not comment but other members of the Ramsay clan added their voices in support. Sister Holly, 21, wrote, “Very well said x #bekind”, while older sister Megan, 23, said, “Love you Tills”.
Tilly is the second youngest of Gordon and Tana’s children. She also has brothers Jack, 21, and two-year-old Oscar. Elizabeth Hurley’s son Damian, 19, also reached out, writing: “What a total w**ker. Bloody uncalled for.”
In 2018, DJ Steve was rapped by Ofcom for mocking a blind BBC journalist given a guide horse because he was scared of dogs. He said: “Well, if he’s blind, tell him it’s a rabbit or something. I’ve never heard of anything so stupid. This is the blind man scared of dogs hoping that a horse will guide him on his commute.”
He also had to apologise in 2008 after he read out unsubstantiated claims about the family of the late comedian Norman Wisdom.
I do live with one of the harshest critics in my house, Dad, so I’m pretty used to that kind of stuff.
Tilly Ramsay
After joining Strictly, Tilly said she was bracing herself for the criticism that comes with being on the show, particularly from the judges.
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She added: “I do live with one of the harshest critics in my house, Dad, so I’m pretty used to that kind of stuff.”
We contacted LBC and Tilly’s representatives for comment.
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