The decision to replace veteran choreographer Arlene Phillips, 66, with former contestant Alesha Dixon, 30, on Strictly Come Dancing has sparked accusations of ageism. Nearly 2,000 complaints have been lodged, with deputy Labour leader Harriet Harman joining the criticism.
BBC1 controller Jay Hunt denied ageism, citing older presenters like Anne Robinson, 60, on the channel. Hunt argued that the change was about refreshing the panel, noting that Phillips was the 'obvious one to change' given the distinct roles of the other judges.
Phillips has been offered a role on The One Show, though details remain unconfirmed. Meanwhile, Radio 1 has also faced scrutiny for replacing older DJs Jo Whiley and Edith Bowman with younger presenters, a move the station says is aimed at attracting a new generation.
On ITV, Holly Willoughby, 28, will replace Fern Britton, 52, on This Morning, further fueling the debate about age discrimination in broadcasting.
