Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas has declared her latest literary venture to be the finest career decision she has made, describing the work as profoundly 'raw and honest'.
A Candid Conversation on Saturday Morning
The revelation came during a heartfelt appearance on James Martin's Saturday Morning on ITV. As the celebrity chef prepared some of Ballas's favourite dishes, the conversation turned to her recent writing. Ballas detailed the journey behind her newest book, which serves as a deeper follow-up to her 2019 autobiography.
She explained that with her initial book, she lacked the confidence to fully unveil her personal story so soon after joining television. 'I really didn't have the confidence to write, perhaps some of the things that I should have written,' she admitted to Martin. This new project, structured in steps rather than chapters, incorporates the wisdom of her mother, who also selected the green cover.
Motherly Wisdom and Personal Revelations
Ballas shared that her mother provides a 'little nugget' of advice at the start of each step, such as the mantra to 'hang your problem at the door and pick it up on the way out' to avoid burdening colleagues. Each section concludes with 'Shirley shimmers' – life lessons passed down from her mother.
The judge, who has authored four books, confidently stated this is her best work. When pressed by James Martin on why, she pointed to its unflinching honesty. 'Because it's raw and it's honest, and it's perhaps things that people wouldn't expect me to write about,' she confessed.
Her disclosures include a startling account of the side effects from taking too much testosterone, resulting in excessive hair growth. She also writes extensively about navigating menopause and various health struggles. 'I write about everything to do with finding my way through menopause and navigating my way through different illnesses,' she said, noting she identifies with fans who write to her sharing similar experiences.
Strictly's Current Chapter
The interview aired in the wake of the latest Strictly Come Dancing series finale, which saw comedian Chris McCausland and professional dancer Dianne Buswell lift the Glitterball Trophy. The recent festive special also marked a poignant end of an era, as it was the final programme presented by longtime hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly.
Ballas's appearance on James Martin's Saturday Morning is available to stream on ITVX, offering fans a more intimate look at the celebrated dance judge beyond the Strictly ballroom.
