LBC early morning host Steve Allen called Ramsay a “chubby little thing” after he read out a comment from a listener telling him the 19-year-old – who is the daughter of TV chef Gordon – was currently being seen in Celebrity MasterChef in Australia, as well as taking part in Strictly Dancing in the UK.Swimming legend Ian Thorpe, who became firm friends with Ramsay when they filmed the celeb version of the Ten’s flagship cooking show, joined the chorus of supporters saying he was Team Tilly and was really disappointed that someone would think it was appropriate to comment on anyone’s weight, let alone a 19-year old girl.“When Tilly came (to Celebrity MasterChef) we all just wanted to give her a hug – a 19-year-old girl on the other side of the world,” Thorpe said.“I just think that it is entirely inappropriate to be making comments about someone’s weight in any way. I thought we’d got to a point where even making a positive comment on someone’s weight doesn’t seem all that appropriate either.“I just feel for her.” Controversy broke when Allen read a comment from a listener on-air, alerting him to the fact that Tilly was taking part in Celebrity MasterChef Australia as well as the UK reality show Strictly Come Dancing. The 67-year-old Allen said in response to the listener’s comment: “Is she? Well, she can’t blimming well dance, I’m bored with her already.“She’s a chubby little thing, isn’t she? Have you noticed? Probably her dad’s cooking, I should imagine.”Ramsay directly addressed Allen’s comments in an Instagram post saying she “won’t tolerate people that think it’s okay to publicly comment and scrutinise anyone’s weight and appearance”.She added she tries not to pay attention to what’s written or said about her, but being “called out on a national radio station by a 67-year-old man is a step too far”.Ramsay said she’s faced comments about her appearance in the past and that although she is learning to accept herself, words can still hurt.She said people should be free to voice their opinions but “I draw the line at (them) commenting on my appearance”.Gold Logie-winner Rebecca Gibney, who also formed strong bonds with Ramsay while she was in Melbourne filming Celebrity MasterChef, was furious.“Let me at him!!! Seriously?? That guy needs a good kick up the bum. You are a brilliant, bright shining star – beautiful dancer, wondrous cook, exceptional human. And wise beyond your years. Always remember for that one dimwitted twat – there are millions who adore you. Keep killing it sweetheart. – Australia loves you too,” she posted.While fashion designer Collette Dinnigan added: “Well said. you are a dynamic, caring, beautiful and talented person and I miss you. Sending love.”Chrissie Swan, who was just named as host of Ten’s version of the Brit panel show Would I Lie To You? and has faced her own body shaming critics, posted: “What a sad backward man. You know your power my girl. It’s growing and was never in doubt. Love you to the moon and back.”While Fox Footy commentator Nick Riewoldt, who has been kicking goals on the celeb cooking show, urged her to stay strong.“You’re an amazing woman. I suggest this loser go and read “The Man in the Arena quote” you got this Tilly.” Judges Jock Zonfrillo and Melissa Leong also joined the groundswell of support with Zonfrillo posting: “Oh Steve how does it feel to be a 67-year-old bully?? I was actually speechless when I heard this, More and more people aren’t owning their words. And have no regard for the lasting impact they can have. This guy should be taking a good hard look at himself, and good on you Tilly for calling him out. You’re gorgeous Tilly, from the moment anyone meets you they are drawn to your warmth, energy and humour. You are generous and polite and someone your parents are super proud of. Stay focused on that, the rest is just noise with the intention to throw you off track.”Leong also slammed the radio host: ‘This is not cool. Steve, you should be ashamed at your behaviour… you’re not exactly a supermodel mate,’ she wrote. She then praised Tilly’s classy response to the drama, writing: ‘Elegantly handled, like the graceful woman you are. #TeamTilly’.Aussie celeb chef Matt Moran was more succinct, posting “What a dick!”
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