Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas is at risk of being axed from a judging role, it has been claimed. The Strictly legend, 66, had been 'growing close' to Italian dancer Giuseppe Nonnis, 36, and it's reportedly sparked backlash within the world of professional dancing.
The duo have been seen enjoying intimate dance sessions while also grabbing dates as a duo. And while neither have spoken publicly about their coupling, it's thought their closeness could be a breach of rules when she judges next week's International Championships.
Judging role in question
Shirley had been set to score the proceedings at one of the world's most prestigious annual ballroom and Latin dance competitions. But the issue arises as Giuseppe will be taking part in the Professional Latin category at the Royal Albert Hall event.
And it's reported the star had allowed the Italian to stay at her property when he was in the UK. A source told The Sun: "This issue is widely discussed within the professional dance community and the organisers are aware of the concerns, but so far nothing has been done."
Community concerns
They went on: "This is the Olympics of ballroom dance and the community feels that the rules are not being respected. The integrity of one of the dance world's most important competitions needs to be protected."
However, another source said that since Giuseppe doesn't live with the Strictly star, no rules have actually been breached.
Ex-fiancee speaks out
Giuseppe's ex-fiancee recently hit out at the pair's apparent relationship. Dasha Chesnokova, a 38-year-old dancer, previously introduced Giuseppe Nonnis, 36, to the Strictly head judge.
After snaps emerged in recent days which could imply that they are together, Dasha hit out and claimed she doesn't want Shirley to "take my man".
She said: "She's a mature woman and I'm a young girl compared to her. She's known me from a long time ago and has been like a dance mum to me.
"It would be like your mum taking your boyfriend. She saw us and knew how much we loved each other so to be with him romantically is the ultimate betrayal."
She went on to tell The Sun: "He has told me there is nothing going on between him and Shirley and I trust him. I have to believe that. Shirley always fancied him and would make jokes about his bum. She told me when I first introduced her to him 'Oh God, you found such a handsome, talented boy'.
"But I would be surprised if anything was happening because I know Giuseppe has never said he likes older women and he's actually very picky."
