The Truth About Cheryl Cole's Past Controversy

On August 27, Cheryl Cole took to Instagram to announce that she would be the presenter of a new BBC Sounds show that honors R&B music. "I've always had an absolute love and passion for R&B and I'm so excited to share my new show You, Me & R&B with you on @bbcsounds," she wrote. "I've really been transported back re-listening to all these tracks and I'm excited for you to relive those moments with me."

The "Fight For This Love" chart-topper's own music is typically radio-friendly pop music that may be influenced by R&B. However, music fans aren't happy with the former Girls Aloud singer representing the genre that was created and represents Black talent. Even though she was cleared of the racially aggravated assault charge, Cheryl is still linked to racism over 15 years later — at least on social media. "Cheryl Cole is an example of white privilege. You beat up a Black woman,get arrested,found guilty & fined for the assault, spend your musical career not making r&b music but get to host a BBC show on the subject when we could all name several Black British artists more qualified," one user tweeted. "Out of every talented R&B artist.... cheryl cole gets this gig?? This woman should have a show about how you can make millions with very little talent," another person shared. "R & B???? Get the f*** outta here cheryl... and we aint forgotten you're racist btw," another person shared.