CΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ's The Next Step's first same-sex kiss!

Image source, CΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ

Image caption, Cleo said: "When I dance with Jude, I feel safe and free all at the same time. When we dance together, it's like magic."

The world has come a long way in supporting LGBTQ+ rights and CΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ have taken a huge step.

On Wednesday July 22, two female characters, Jude and Cleo from 'The Next Step' kissed.

This was the first same-sex kiss to air on CΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ and many people have said it was an important moment for LGBTQ+ rights.

Why are people so excited about a same-sex kiss?

Image source, CΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ

Even though people from the LGBTQ+ community have gained many rights in the UK over the last 50 years, some people still don't accept same-sex relationships and queer identities.

Homophobia is when people dislike (or have prejudice towards) gay people.

Up until 1967 it was illegal for men to be in a same-sex relationship in Britain.

Talking about LGBTQ+ relationships on a show for children, is still a relatively new thing.

'The Next Step' recognised how important it was to show all kinds of relationships, and it seems the viewers thought so too!

Lots of fans commented on social media about the kiss, one fan said:

Another commented about how showing this kiss would help lots of others feel accepted:

"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."

A spokesperson for CΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ has said:

Did you watch this episode? What did you think? Let us know in the comments !

You can get 'The Next Step' on ΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ Iplayer