A radio program’s on-air mockery of a ballet dancer’s preparation for a performance sparked outrage and a swift defense from a prominent figure in the dance world on February 13, 2026. The incident highlights ongoing challenges with homophobic commentary in media and its potential impact on aspiring artists.
Comments During Broadcast Draw Criticism
The controversy unfolded during “Nadie nos para,” a show hosted by Beto Casella on Rock & Pop, airing Monday through Friday.
During the February 13th broadcast, the program’s team played a video published by the Teatro Colón on December 30, 2025, showcasing dancer Valentín Fresno’s routine as he prepared for a performance of “The Nutcracker.” The segment, part of a series called “La lodge of good taste,” typically involves analyzing everyday situations. However, the discussion quickly veered into inappropriate territory.
Casella introduced the video, stating, “A boy from the lodge, Valentín Fresno, is a dancer at the Teatro Colón and tells his sacrificial routine. Let’s go see it.” Shortly after, homophobic remarks began, and a sound clip from the late comedian Doctor Tangalanga, known for prank calls, was overlaid on Fresno’s audio in a manner widely considered offensive. Casella added, “What a future this boy has,” without challenging the problematic comments.
Fellow program participant Joe Fernández contributed to the offensive tone, making degrading remarks. Fernández, previously involved in a 2018 abuse allegation—where a woman claimed a relationship with him when she was 16 and he was 32 led to his dismissal from the “Gente sexy” radio program hosted by Clemente Cancela—repeatedly made inappropriate statements.
Bocca and Fresno Respond
Julio Bocca, director of the Ballet Estable del Colón, quickly voiced his support for Fresno, recording a message that same day. “Hello Valentín, I wanted to congratulate you for the response to the homophobic messages. The truth was with great height and with values that are being lost in the world, with respect and education,” Bocca stated.
Fresno himself addressed the situation on Instagram, sharing a clip of the program and expressing his disappointment. “It is a shame that media with so much influence spread and endorse homophobic comments,” he wrote. He emphasized that while the comments didn’t personally harm him, they could discourage future generations from pursuing ballet, perpetuating harmful stereotypes. “Let’s not normalize this type of language and jokes.”
Fresno’s post garnered over a thousand “likes” and numerous messages of support, including one from journalist Ángel de Brito, who simply called the incident “Pathetic.”
What are the potential consequences of normalizing homophobic language in media? Such language can create a hostile environment for LGBTQ+ individuals, discourage participation in the arts, and reinforce harmful stereotypes, particularly among young people.
