Shirley Ballas was reduced to tears during Wednesday's (November 11) episode of It Takes Two as the Strictly Come Dancing spin-off marked her 10 years on the judging panel, prompting her to pledge her commitment to the BBC One show.
The head judge joined Strictly in 2017, replacing the late Len Goodman after he announced his plans to step down at the end of the 14th series. To mark the milestone, host Ellie Taylor presented Shirley with a video montage of memories from her time on the show, along with messages from fellow judges, Strictly stars and her son, professional dancer Mark Ballas.
Emotional tribute on It Takes Two
After Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke shared their messages, alongside Dianne Buswell and Lauren Oakley, Shirley was seen wiping tears from her eyes. She said: "Amazing, I wasn't expecting to see my son on that, to be perfectly honest. All those boys and girls know I adore them."
Speaking about her love for the show, she added: "Any way I can help them, I'm always there for them. I adore the show, I will be loyal to the show until the day they kick me off it!" Her comments came after she recently made a guest judging appearance on Dancing With the Stars in the US.
Shirley's Instagram message
Following the programme, Shirley shared the video on Instagram, writing: "Brb, I’m crying … thank you @bbcstrictly for the most beautiful, unexpected surprise this evening. 10 years on what I truly believe is the very best show on television."
She thanked the contestants, saying: "To all the boys and girls on the show, thank you for your incredibly kind and touching words. You have no idea how much they mean to me." She also expressed gratitude to fans, adding: "To the Strictly fans, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your messages, your kindness and your support."
Addressing her son, she wrote: "And then my boy, @markballas. I cannot believe you managed to sneak yourself into that VT without me knowing. You caught your mother completely off guard and I don’t think you realise just how much that moment meant to me." She concluded: "I am so very grateful that I get to call Strictly part of my life. Thank you."
Reactions from Strictly stars
Strictly professionals shared their congratulations in the comments. Lauren Oakley wrote: "Happy 10 years! It’s an honour and a pleasure to be watched and critiqued by you every week." Vito Coppola said: "Happy 10 Strictly years to the one and only QUEEN of Dance." Katya Jones added: "Such an honour to have you on the show with us, bringing your expertise and inspiration. Happy 10 years Shirley." Carlos Gu posted: "Happiest 10 year Shirl!!!! Love you to bits," and Maddie Ingoldsby commented: "Just the best of the best what an extraordinary journey."
