Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas fought back tears during an appearance on It Takes Two as she reflected on celebrating a decade on the BBC One programme. The 66-year-old recently made her debut as a guest judge on Dancing with the Stars, but confirmed she will not be leaving Strictly for the US opportunity.
Double duty this year
Speaking about the new role, Ballas said: “It's double duty this year. That was a job I've always wanted. It's been on my wishlist.” She added: “I feel that Dancing With the Stars will be a slightly different audience. I think I can probably be more strict. It's going to be very interesting. But I'm 100% not leaving Strictly!”
Reflecting on her time on the show, she said: “It's been the most fabulous run ever. I can still remember in 2017 getting the call, I never take anything for granted. I am truly, truly thankful for the time I've had on the show to give my knowledge.”
Emotional montage surprise
As It Takes Two host Ellie Taylor hailed Ballas an “incredible” judge, the head judge was surprised with a montage of her Strictly moments over the years. During the clip, her son and Dancing with the Stars professional Mark shared sweet words: “My mum loves this craft, she's dedicated her life to it, and I can't think of anyone better to sit in that chair and give you feedback that you can take with you to improve on your journey.”
After hearing his words and comments from other Strictly stars including Lauren Oakley and Diane Buswell, Ballas was left choking back tears. She said: “I wasn't expecting to see my son on that, to be perfectly honest. But all those boys and girls, they know I adore them. Anyway I can help them, I'm always there for them.”
Loyalty to the show
She continued: “I adore the show, I will be loyal to the show to the day they kick me off it! But I've absolutely enjoyed every minute of it, and ten years have gone by so fast. I'm proud of those ten years, I'm proud of every single person that ever took part in, all the celebrities that sign up for it.”
“It's a tough show! It's now for the weak-hearted or weak-minded, so even when they're coming down on the very first launch show, I have ultimate respect for the celebrity.” Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two airs weeknights from 6.30pm on BBC Two and iPlayer.
