It has been reported that Chaz Bono may need security protection during her appearance on Dancing With the Stars.

Executives at the ABC network are concerned people of the public could target Chaz – who was born a woman but began gender reassignment surgery around three years ago because she was born in the wrong body. The controversy is set because Chaz will be one of the male contestants on the show.

A source told TMZ while no specific threats have been made against Chaz, the network are aware there are ‘crazies’ who have strong feelings about his inclusion, and feel it necessary security is given when the dancing competition kicks off.

Chaz, 42, is partnered with professional dancer Lacey Schwimmer for the show and believes his appearance will help have a positive impact on young people who are struggling with their identities.

He said: ‘I’m just a regular guy. All these ideas that children shouldn’t watch me because I’m going to be confusing, all of this stuff, it’s crazy.

‘I know that if when I was growing up I would have seen someone like me on a show like this it would have made all the difference in the world in my life.’

Chaz’s appearance on the DWTS has also been supported by his mother, idol and pop singer Cher, who has stood by Chaz through the whole process of his gender reassignment surgery.