Ashley Banjo walked out onto the Britain's Got Talent stage to the tune of Elton John's I'm Still Standing this weekend - after receiving over 15,000 complaints through Ofcom for Diversity's recent Black Lives Matter performance.
In the previous episode of BGT, Ashley joined the dance troupe on stage for a stirring performance reflecting on the murder of George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter protests that sprang up around the world in response.
While many praised the performance for being moving and thought provoking, others voiced their displeasure via Ofcom, with thousands complaining about the routine, which some viewed as 'too political'.
In one part of the the BLM-inspired routine, lead dancer Ashley lies on his stomach with his arms behind his back, while another troupe member - playing a policeman - kneels on his neck, as others take pictures.
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Viewers wondered if Ashley's walk-on music in this weekend's episode was an act of defiance - but given that the episode was filmed before the Diversity performance aired, that theory seems unfounded.
Still, it did make for an appropriate entry - go, Ashley!
In the aftermath of the complaints, Ashley tweeted: "So much to say... But I'll Just let the performance talk. Thousands of messages of Love and support - Thank you.
"For the thousands of messages of hate and ignorance - Thank you. You highlight exactly what needs to change. Sending nothing but love to you all."
Talking about the performance on this weekend's episode, the dancer said: "I loved it.
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"I love being on this side of the desk. But you guys got me up there as well. So this is my first week where I am just going to be enjoying the panel on its own."
Featured Image Credit: Ashley Banjo / InstagramTopics: Black Lives Matter, britains got talent, TV and Film, TV News, TV Entertainment
