Strictly Come Dancing viewers fear judge Shirley Ballas may be preparing to leave the show after a tribute marking her 10 years on the programme sparked widespread speculation. The 66-year-old was honoured on It Takes Two this week, but fans were alarmed by the footage, with many taking to social media to voice their concerns that she could be gearing up for a permanent exit.
Tribute sparks exit fears
The video celebrated Ballas's decade on the BBC show, but several viewers felt it hinted at a departure. One social media user wrote: "Shirley 'I'll be on Strictly til the day I die or the day they kick me off it'. Ok, Shirley is definitely going isn't she?" Another responded: "Love her on the show as a judge. It was just an anniversary celebration. Well deserved that too."
A third commented: "She's going to leave Strictly this year and go to Dancing With The Stars. That's what I think is going to happen." Meanwhile, another user posted: "Why does this feel like an exit interview for Shirley? #ItTakesTwo." Another replied: "I said exactly the same thing!" While someone else chimed in with: "Was literally just thinking that."
Ballas responds to speculation
Following the special moment, Ballas took to Instagram to reflect on her experiences on the show. She thanked Strictly for "the most beautiful, unexpected surprise", writing: "10 years on what I truly believe is the very best show on television."
In her post, she added: "All those years ago, I walked into a world of television that was completely unfamiliar to me and little did I know what was in store. 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 addressed her son, Mark Ballas, who appeared in the tribute video, saying: "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."
No plans to leave
In the comments section, numerous followers admitted they initially feared she was departing when they first watched the video, with some confessing they "panicked" she was bidding farewell. However, according to Shirley, that is not the case. Responding directly in the comments, she stated: "I'll be with my paddles for as long as I'm invited."
