Chaz Bono's Rep: 'No Way Is He Going to Back Down' from 'Dancing With the Stars' (Video)

4:21 PM PDT 9/2/2011 by Jethro Nededog

0
0
0
0
0
Email
Print
Comments

"This has really reinforced his decision to be part of the show," Howard Bragman says.

Larry Busacca/Getty Images for Sundance Film Festival

Chaz Bono’s rep appeared Friday on ABC's GMA and said that while the star knew there would be some backlash from his participation on Dancing with the Stars, they didn’t expect it to reach the level it has.

PHOTOS: Meet the Season 13 Cast of 'Dancing With the Stars'

“Chaz is really taking it well,” Howard Bragman, who has orchestrated the public coming outs of several celebrities including actress Meredith Baxter and country singer Chely Wright.

“He’s really using [the controversy] to motivate himself,” Bragman continues. “He’s working incredibly hard, dancing hours at a time, and he’s committed to being a great dancer and having a great time on the show.”

STORY: 'Dancing With the Stars' EP Reveals Why Chaz Bono Is a Good Fit for Show

Since ABC’s official announcement that the transgender star would be participating in the upcoming season of the dance competition, ABC’s message board was flooded with angry complaints about the casting. And Conservative parents groups and media organizations have called for a boycott of the show.

“This has really reinforced his decision to be part of the show,” Bragman says of the controversy. “No way is he going to back down.”

VIDEO: 'Dancing with the Stars' Chaz Bono Says He Has Cher's Approval

Watch the full interview below.

Email: Jethro.Nededog@thr.com; Twitter: @TheRealJethro

GLAAD Thrilled About Chaz Bono On 'Dancing With the Stars'

'Becoming Chaz': A Timeline From Conception to Three Emmy Nominations

More 'Dancing with the Stars' Coverage on THR