Shirley Ballas has been forced into a costume change after a barrage of criticism. The head judge on Strictly had to have her dress stripped of feathers between shows following complaints from an animal rights group. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) urged producers to cease using bird feathers, which are often harvested cruelly, in their costumes.
Consequently, the BBC removed ostrich feathers from Shirley's red gown, without publicly admitting they were complying with the request. A source from the TV industry revealed: "Shirley was shocked by the suddenness of it all and because the outfit pulled to bits was quite glamorous and expensive. Shirley changed between the broadcast of Saturday's live show, when she was dressed as Cher for Music Icons Week, and put on the red number for the start of recording the results show.
There wasn't time to change into another outfit and the whole show is run to a tight schedule. Wardrobe assistants had to quickly ensure there were no feathers. Even fellow judge Motsi Mabuse was said to be helping ensure they'd disappeared without a trace.
" Read more: Strictly judge rushes to slam viewers Feathers seem to be frequently used in Strictly costumes, including those worn this year by Miranda star Sarah Hadland, EastEnders ' Jamie Borthwick and Montell Douglas, aka Gladiator's Fire. Last week, Peta wrote to Strictly's executive producer Sarah James about the treatment of ostriches and peacocks used in the fashion industry. In a .