Kiss FM DJ Tyler West to ignore racist trolls as he aims to inspire others by starring in Strictly Come Dancing

The DJ has said that he will be ignoring all racist messages and believes his appearance on the show improve representation
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Tyler West, 26, is one of the newest contestants on Strictly Come Dancing.

The DJ, from South London, has shared the unsettling news that he has received racist messages since it was announced that he would be joining the 2022 cast of the dancing show.

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Speaking on his radio show on Kiss FM he announced that he would be ignoring all trolls moving forwards.

Tyler West will be on the 2022 series of Strictly Come Dancing. Tyler West will be on the 2022 series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Tyler West will be on the 2022 series of Strictly Come Dancing.

He said: “I’ve grown up on a racist estate so it doesn’t bother me.

“If another kid can look at us and go ‘he’s got locks, he’s Jamaican, and he’s on screen’ then it’s motivational.

“Growing up, I’d rarely look at TV and see someone that looks like me, sounds like me or is from my area.”

Tyler West and Aitch pose for a photograph at Kiss FM on March 10, 2022Tyler West and Aitch pose for a photograph at Kiss FM on March 10, 2022
Tyler West and Aitch pose for a photograph at Kiss FM on March 10, 2022
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Tyler went on to say that he hopes his involvement in the show can be empowering to young people of colour.

Strictly Come Dancing was due to air on Saturday 17 September but it was postponed due to Queen Elizabeth II’s death.

The show will now air on Friday 23 September and Saturday 24 September - fans can expect a double dose of Strictly with one episode pre-recorded and another live.

 Harriet Rose and Tyler West are seen at Craig David's  intimate Sky VIP show for Kiss FM at Abbey Road Studios Harriet Rose and Tyler West are seen at Craig David's  intimate Sky VIP show for Kiss FM at Abbey Road Studios
Harriet Rose and Tyler West are seen at Craig David's intimate Sky VIP show for Kiss FM at Abbey Road Studios

Tyler is well known for being a radio host with Kiss FM and the host of MTV’s Celebrity Ex on The Beach podcast.

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He will be joined by stars such as Kym March, Ellie Simmonds, Fleur East and Helen Skelton on the Strictly dancefloor.

In his introductory interview for Strictly he said: “My pro partner will need some patience, patience and probably patience again. I’m too energetic!

“I’ve got some serious shapes to cut on that dance floor.”

Tyler said that he signed up for the show as he watches it “religiously” with his whole family.

The DJ announced his participation on the show on Instagram, he wrote: “The fanciest school photo I’ve ever had.

“@bbcstriclty Friday 23rd who’s ready?”

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Diversity dancer Perri Kiely wrote: “The chest is out! He ain’t playing no games.”

Richie Anderson, TV personality, commented: “Mr West, in his Sunday best, bringing the heat.”

Comedian Eleanor Jane Taylor said: “Shining as bright as one of your head torches.”

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