Royal Ballet School Settles Landmark Body-Shaming Case

Former student Ellen Elphick claims abusive treatment by teachers led to an eating disorder and ended her dance career.

Ellen Elphick, a former Royal Ballet School student, settled a legal case alleging body-shaming by teachers during her training from 2009 to 2012.
Elphick claimed she developed anorexia and body dysmorphia due to abusive practices, including being humiliated in front of mirrors and physically prodded without consent.
The school did not admit liability or issue an apology but stated it remains committed to student welfare and safeguarding improvements since 2013.
Elphick's lawyer described the settlement as the first of its kind in ballet and called for a government inquiry into systemic body-shaming in the dance world.
The case has brought renewed attention to the mental health challenges faced by ballet students and the need for cultural change within the industry.