Tasha Ghouri: Dancing Through Controversy on Strictly Come Dancing
Tasha Ghouri, a star of the popular BBC show Strictly Come Dancing, has recently found herself at the center of a heated debate regarding her dance background and the scoring of her performances. After earning the first perfect score of the season alongside her professional partner, Aljaz Skorjanec, Ghouri’s achievements have been met with both acclaim and criticism. This article delves into the controversy, her dance journey, and the support she has garnered from fans and fellow celebrities.
A Stellar Performance
On a recent Saturday evening, Tasha Ghouri and Aljaz Skorjanec dazzled the audience with their Charleston, earning a remarkable score of 39. While three of the judges awarded them the coveted 10s, Craig Revel Horwood was the only judge who refrained from giving a perfect score. Despite this, Ghouri’s performance was celebrated as a highlight of the evening, propelling her to the forefront of the competition and solidifying her status as a contender for the Glitterball Trophy.
The Dance Background Debate
However, Ghouri’s success has not come without its detractors. Some viewers have voiced their concerns over her previous dance training, arguing that her background gives her an unfair advantage over less experienced competitors. Before her rise to fame, Ghouri trained at the Creative Academy in Slough, where she graduated with a first-class honors degree in Dance Performance. She also began ballet training at a young age, which has led some to label her a "professional dancer."
In response to the criticism, Ghouri has emphasized that Strictly Come Dancing presents a unique challenge, distinct from her previous experiences. In an interview with Kiss FM, she stated, "I’ve not danced for quite a few years – since Love Island, my career is so different. It’s such a different dance style… It’s going to be very hard but I’m excited for a challenge." This acknowledgment of the difficulty of adapting to new styles highlights her commitment to the competition.
Viewer Reactions and Criticism
Despite her reassurances, the backlash has been palpable. Following the airing of her Charleston, social media erupted with comments questioning the fairness of her scoring. One viewer remarked, "’Truly professional’ I’d hope so given she went to dance school and IS a professional dancer. Way over marked, what a joke!" Others echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that her dance training made her performances less impressive compared to those of her less experienced peers.
Critics argue that while Ghouri may not have trained in Latin or ballroom styles, her foundational skills in dance provide her with an advantage in terms of musicality and strength. This has led to accusations of unfairness, with some viewers feeling that the competition should be more equitable for all participants.
Support from Fellow Celebrities
In the face of criticism, Ghouri has received an outpouring of support from fans and fellow celebrities. Former Strictly finalist Layton Williams defended her, stating, "But she’s a professional… SLAYER! Some of you lot are such haters. Aren’t we bored of the same old argument?" Williams emphasized the importance of showcasing a range of abilities on the show, reinforcing the idea that diversity in talent is what makes Strictly Come Dancing exciting.
Gogglebox star Tom Malone Jr. also came to Ghouri’s defense, highlighting the challenges she faces in adapting to a new dance style while managing her disability. He praised her as an inspiration, stating, "Tasha is an inspiration and she’s going above and beyond to show people that we can push beyond the boxes that society tries to assign us to."
Ghouri’s Response to Criticism
Rather than engaging directly with her critics, Ghouri has chosen to focus on the support she receives. She expressed her gratitude to Williams and Malone Jr. through social media, responding with heartfelt messages and emojis that convey her appreciation for their encouragement. This approach demonstrates her resilience and determination to rise above the negativity.
Looking Ahead
As Tasha Ghouri prepares to take to the dance floor once more, this time performing a Tango to Florence & The Machine’s "Dog Days Are Over," she remains a frontrunner in the competition. Her journey on Strictly Come Dancing serves as a reminder of the complexities of talent, experience, and public perception. While the debate surrounding her background continues, Ghouri’s passion for dance and her ability to captivate audiences are undeniable.
In the world of competitive dance, where every performance is scrutinized, Ghouri’s story is one of perseverance, talent, and the pursuit of excellence—qualities that resonate with fans and aspiring dancers alike. As she continues to navigate the challenges of the competition, one thing is clear: Tasha Ghouri is a force to be reckoned with on the dance floor.