CBBC praised for momentous first same-sex kiss in kids show The Next Step
Fans expressed their excitement as they watched two characters perform a stunning dance duet before sharing a kiss during the latest episode of the mockumentary-style drama
CBBC's teen drama The Next Step has been applauded by fans as it became the first show on the channel to air a same sex kiss.
The Canadian series is based upon the story of a dance troupe that prepares for dance competitions and championships.
In the latest episode, that aired on July 22, characters Cleo (Dani Verayo) and Jude (Molly Sanders) had a heart to heart moment before they performed a duet.
Marking a momentous moment for CBBC history, the two dancers got even closer during the scene before they shared a kiss.
Viewers were quick to praise the show in what marked a hopeful sign of breaking down even more barriers in television.
The Next Step characters Jude and Cleo shared a kiss during the latest episode(Image: BBC)
One fan wrote: "they wouldn’t have put ANYTHING like this on there when i was little and that was only like 10 years ago… we moving forward!!!"
"When kids [shows] have representation like this it honestly makes me so happy because I know there are kids out there who will feel less alone than I did," wrote another.
A third added: "This is the first proper lgbt couple ever on cbbc right cause I will never be over this."
Fans have praised the momentous episode(Image: BBC)
Jude and Cleo shared a stunning dance routine before they seemed to grow closer(Image: BBC)
Other viewers expressed their happiness and excitement about the beautiful moment.
BBC producers have been working to serve the LGBTQ+ community and provide representation in their shows.
According to Metro, a BBC spokesperson said: "CBBC is proud to reflect all areas of children’s lives, including age appropriate representation of same sex relationships, across our factual and fictional output."
Viewers have celebrated the moment in CBBC history(Image: BBC)
Just last year, Strictly Come Dancing featured a same-sex dance routine between Johannes Radebe and Graziano Di Prima - however the show didn't go as far as ITV rival Dancing On Ice.
Other shows such as Casualty and Holby city have also featured a number of LGBTQ+ characters in their episodes.
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