The BBC has confirmed that it blurred out a transgender rights slogan on the T-shirt of Bethany Antonia, the House of the Dragon actress competing in Strictly Come Dancing.
Antonia, who plays Lady Baela Targaryen in HBO’s Game of Thrones spin-off series, rehearsed for the British version of Dancing With the Stars in a white shirt that read: “Protect the Dolls.”
The BBC posted a video of the Strictly training session on social media last week, with the slogan visible. Antonia’s T-shirt was later blurred for the TV broadcast on Saturday.
In a statement, the BBC said: “As is standard practice on any entertainment show on the BBC and in line with our editorial guidelines, appropriate steps are taken to reduce the inclusion of any overt branding or slogans that may be present, regardless of the wording or statement in question.”
The “Protect the Dolls” T-shirt was designed by Conner Ives, who showcased it during London Fashion Week in 2025. “Dolls” is how the LGBTQIA+ community refers to trans women. The shirt has since been worn by the likes of Pedro Pascal.
Antonia has not commented on the BBC’s decision to remove the slogan. She is partnered with professional dancer Nancy Xu and continues to participate in the competition. Gavin & Stacey actress Melanie Walters was eliminated over the weekend.
Antonia has previously worked with Russell T Davies, appearing alongside Helena Bonham Carter in Nolly. She has also guest-starred in Doctor Who with former Strictly Come Dancing champion Rose Ayling-Ellis.