Strictly Come Dancing professional Lauren Oakley has spoken out with a heartfelt message to fans, urging them to think carefully before posting hurtful comments online in the aftermath of the BBC show’s dramatic finale.
The 34-year-old dancer took to social media to address the darker side of public reaction to the programme, admitting that cruel remarks can have a devastating emotional impact. Making it clear that her message came from genuine concern rather than a desire for attention, Lauren stressed how even a single comment can affect someone deeply.
“We don’t talk about it enough because we don’t want to ‘give them what they want,’” she wrote. “But one comment online can really ruin your whole day. You have no idea where someone is emotionally and mentally. Please, please think before you type.”
To underline the sincerity of her words, Lauren chose to disable replies on the post, explaining that she wasn’t seeking debate or reassurance — only awareness.
Lauren’s message followed a controversial moment earlier in the series, when she and her 2025 partner, former footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, were eliminated in week five. The exit proved divisive among viewers, as Jimmy had achieved his highest score of the competition that week but lost the dance-off to Amber Davies — whose participation sparked debate due to her prior dance experience.
Fans quickly voiced their frustration online, with many insisting Jimmy had been “robbed” and expressing disappointment that his journey had ended prematurely. While much of the reaction was supportive, Lauren’s post highlighted how criticism and anger can easily cross the line into something far more harmful.
Her comments come at a time when Strictly continues to face increased scrutiny over its culture and the pressure placed on those involved. The emotional toll of public judgement — particularly on social media — has become an ongoing concern for performers and professionals alike.
The discussion also follows renewed attention around former Strictly pro Giovanni Pernice, who is reportedly set to reunite with several past co-stars at a luxury dance weekend this summer. The event, not affiliated with the BBC, is scheduled to take place at the five-star Celtic Manor Resort in Newport and is expected to feature appearances from a number of familiar faces from the show.
Giovanni, who left Strictly in 2024 following bullying allegations made by his former partner Amanda Abbington, has previously spoken openly about the emotional impact of that period. Describing the experience as feeling like “the world collapsed,” he later clarified that while he considers himself a strict and competitive teacher, he rejects the label of bully, noting that multiple allegations were dismissed following investigation.
Since stepping away from the BBC series, Giovanni has remained active, winning the Italian version of Strictly in 2025 and exploring new opportunities in acting, singing, and teaching dance.
Lauren Oakley’s plea serves as a powerful reminder that behind every performance, elimination, and headline are real people navigating intense public scrutiny. As she urged fans to pause before posting, her message echoed a simple truth: kindness online matters — more than many realise.
