Shirley Ballas has addressed her future on Strictly Come Dancing, confirming she is not leaving the show. The 66-year-old judge took to Instagram on Tuesday (3 November) to thank fans for their support during her time on Dancing With The Stars, while making clear she is continuing with the BBC series.
Thanking fans after DWTS appearance
Reflecting on her appearance on Dancing With The Stars, Ballas wrote: "Thinking back to @dancingwiththestars last week. I just want to take a moment to thank everybody who interacted with my socials, sent me messages of good luck, kindness and support. It truly meant so very much."
She added: "Having sat in the DWTS audience for many, many years, never did I imagine, not even for a second, that one day I'd be blessed with the chance to sit behind the desk. What an incredible experience and a privilege to share my knowledge and passion."
Ballas described the evening as "the most spectacular" and said she enjoyed "every tiny-weenie moment of it in my tiny-weenie shoes."
Back on Strictly
She confirmed her return to the UK series, writing: "I'm now back in the UK continuing with @bbcstrictly, but I was watching from afar last night and sending lots of love and good wishes to all. Wishing the couples, professionals and the team the very best of luck for the rest of the series."
The clarification comes after viewers criticised Ballas for her scoring during Strictly's Halloween special, which aired on Saturday. Several fans accused her of being notably harsh on the female contestants, with one writing on X: "A five for Tabby [Stoecker]? That's harsh even by Shirley's standards."
Viewer backlash
Another viewer commented: "The energy Shirley Ballas is bringing tonight is just not the one… why does she hate women so much?" A third added: "Shirley Ballas has become the show's biggest problem. She's pure evil. It's supposed to be a bit of fun on Saturday night, and she acts like it's the biggest dance competition known to man."
Despite the backlash, Ballas has confirmed she remains part of Strictly Come Dancing for the rest of the series.
