Shirley Ballas has insisted she is "100% not leaving Strictly" after taking on a new role as a guest judge on Dancing with the Stars. The head judge, 66, made her debut on the US show and described the coming year as "double duty", while confirming her commitment to the BBC One programme.
Speaking to Prima, Ballas said: "It's double duty this year. That was a job I've always wanted. It's been on my wishlist. 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 a Decade on Strictly
Ballas, who joined Strictly in 2017, looked back on her time on the show with gratitude. "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," she said.
During an appearance on It Takes Two, presenter Ellie Taylor praised Ballas as an "incredible" judge, and the head judge was shown a compilation of her Strictly highlights over the years.
Emotional Tribute from Her Son
The footage included a heartfelt message from her son, Dancing with the Stars professional Mark Ballas. He said: "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."
Along with tributes from fellow Strictly stars Lauren Oakley and Diane Buswell, the message left Ballas struggling to hold 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
Ballas spoke of her devotion to Strictly, saying: "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."
She added: "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 not 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.
