Alesha Dixon fumes at Arlene Phillips flak

Friday, 16th October 2009.

New Strictly Come Dancing judge Alesha Dixon insists that she was unaware she'd be Arlene Phillips' replacement on the ballroom dance show.

The 31 year-old has been the subject of much negativity since landing a place on the show's judging panel, with viewers and critics saying the pop star is a poor substitute for experienced dance teacher Arlene.

But speaking frankly on Friday Night With Jonathan Ross , the former Mis-Teeq singer said of Phillips' sacking: "I knew nothing, I found out when everyone else did.

"I was as surprised as everyone else but I took all the flak for it."

And Dixon - who was the Strictly Come Dancing champion in 2007 - scoffed at claims he predecessor was given the boot for being too old.

"Personally I don't think it's about ageism, I think that's a load of rubbish," she said.

Battling the nerves

Alesha also admitted she was really nervous in the weeks leading up to her first appearance on the new series of Strictly: "I was worried the judges wouldn't warm towards me,” she said.

It was the press and viewers that Dixon should have been more worried about though, with many complaining that her lack of experience made the show a laughing stock.

But she didn’t let that faze her: "I thought I'm not going to let the media ruin my experience, “she said.

"It's made me stronger. My life has never been smooth; it's made me more determined, focused.

“I'm a fighter. I believe you have to rise above negativity."

You can see Alesha’s full interview with Jonathan Ross on BBC One tonight.