Strictly Come Dancing newbie Johannes Radebe has issued a grovelling apology after revealing one of his fellow dancers likened Blackpool to ‘squatter camps’.
The South African choreographer, 31, said one of the professional dancers told him that he ‘shouldn’t expect much’ when visiting the English seaside resort.
Contestants on the popular BBC1 show perform at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom at the much anticipated midway point of the contest, which is in November this year.
‘I’m sorry’: Strictly Come Dancing newbie Johannes Radebe has issued a grovelling apology after revealing one of his fellow dancers likened Blackpool to ‘squatter camps’
But Johannes, who joined the talented line-up this year, said his fellow professional compared Blackpool to a shanty town.
In an interview with The Mirror on Friday he said: ‘Growing up, for me there’s always been the Blackpool championship… and when you look at Blackpool from the inside, it’s majestic.’
The dancer continued: ‘And you would think it would be in a very posh area as it hosts one of the biggest events in the dancing calendar.’
However, he admitted his opinion was challenged after a fellow dancer pro compared the town to ‘the squatter camps.’
The South African choreographer, 31, said one of the professional dancers told him that he ‘shouldn’t expect much’ when visiting the English seaside resort
Johannes’ comments provoked an angry backlash, with furious residents hitting back at the Strictly star.
A local hotel worker said: ‘I am shocked at the comments. Blackpool is a fabulous traditional seaside resort.’
A fish and chip shop worker also commented: ‘It’s a great town. People from all ages come to Blackpool and they all love it.
‘It’s got all the attractions – the Pleasure Beach and the Illuminations.’
Grand display: The remaining contestants are expected to the dance floor at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom in November, just weeks before the hotly-anticipated final (pictured Ed Balls in 2016)
Later on Friday, Johannes issued an apology to the website, insisting that he’s sorry for any offence caused to Blackpool natives.
He added that he is looking forward to taking to the stage at the prestigious ballroom later this year.
Shortly before his stint on the show, the Dancing with the Stars South Africa star gushed over his new role to Radio Times, branding Strictly as ‘one of the greatest achievements of my career’.
Following the comments, a BBC spokesman told The Mirror: ‘Visiting Blackpool is the absolute highlight of the Strictly calendar.’
MailOnline has contacted Visit Blackpool, Strictly Come Dancing and Johannes’ representatives for comment.
Apology: Later on Friday, Johannes issued an apology to the website, insisting that he’s sorry for any offence caused to Blackpool natives, and is looking forward to taking to the stage at the prestigious ballroom later this year