Strictly Come Dancing viewers are convinced that judge Shirley Ballas is preparing to leave the show after a tribute marking her 10 years on the programme sparked widespread speculation. The anniversary celebration aired on It Takes Two this week, prompting many fans to share similar predictions about her future on social media.
Ballas, 66, was honoured with a special video segment on the spin-off show, which led some viewers to interpret the moment as a potential farewell. The footage paid tribute to her decade-long tenure, but a number of fans felt it hinted that she could be gearing up to bow out.
Fans React to Anniversary Tribute
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 replied: "Love her on the show as a judge. It was just an anniversary celebration. Well deserved that too."
A third commenter predicted: "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 viewer posted: "Why does this feel like an exit interview for Shirley? #ItTakesTwo." Others echoed the sentiment, with one adding: "I said exactly the same thing!" and another remarking: "Was literally just thinking that."
Shirley Ballas Responds
Following the special moment, Ballas took to Instagram to reflect on her time on the programme. She thanked Strictly for "the most beautiful, unexpected surprise", writing: "10 years on what I truly believe is the very best show on television."
She continued: "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."
Ballas 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."
Numerous followers in the comments section admitted they initially believed she was departing when they first watched the footage, with some confessing they "panicked" thinking she was bidding farewell. However, Ballas responded directly to the speculation, stating: "I'll be with my paddles for as long as I'm invited."
