After So You Think You Can Dance judge Nigel Lythgoe was slammed for his homophobic remarks regarding a same-sex dancing pair on the show’s season premiere this week, Lythgoe went on quite the Twitterant!
Wrote Nigel on his official Twitter:
I hear I’m taking a beating on the web due to my comments regarding same sex ballroom I thought I was the most accepting of it on the panel?
The same sex ballroom guys did remind me of “Blades of Glory.” However, I’m not a fan of ‘Brokeback’ Ballroom.
I am very sad the word ‘homophobe’ is being used. That is someone who hates homosexuals. I dislike effeminate dancing! Wake up and listen!
I believe overtly effeminate dancing destroys the opportunity for many male dancers to be supported. Being gay doesn’t mean effeminate.
We have had same sex dancing on SYTYCD from Season 1. Last year Joshua and Twitch. Before that Mia’s Prince’s routine with Danny and Neil.
I am passionate about dancers and dancing. I am not interested in their sexual preferences only their dancing and performances. Offstage ??
Lythgoe finally took a step back to the situation and offered an apology to the gay community:
“I wholeheartedly apologize for my Brokeback Ballroom Tweet. It was insensitive, ignorant and stupid. I have upset a number of dear friends.”
He can’t undo the damage that’s already been done!
But nice try!
P.S. CLICK HERE to “follow” Perez on Twitter!
[Image via WENN.]