Strictly Come Dancing's head judge Shirley Ballas has delivered a stunning defence of the show's casting choices, declaring the hit BBC series would be "boring" without professionally trained dancers.
The dance world veteran dropped the bombshell comments during an exclusive interview, directly addressing criticism surrounding this year's celebrity lineup - particularly Love Island winner Amber Davies, who boasts extensive musical theatre experience.
The Professional Perspective
"Let's be honest here," Ballas stated emphatically. "If we didn't have people with some dance background, it would be incredibly boring to watch. The viewers want to see progression, they want to see people who can actually move."
Her remarks come as Strictly faces mounting scrutiny over its selection process, with critics questioning whether contestants with professional training gain an unfair advantage in the competition.
Amber Davies Under the Spotlight
Davies, who shot to fame on the 2017 series of Love Island, has become a West End star since her reality TV beginnings. Her credits include leading roles in smash-hit musicals Bring It On and 9 to 5, giving her a significant dance foundation that's raised eyebrows among Strictly purists.
However, Ballas was quick to highlight the distinction between different dance disciplines. "Just because someone has done musical theatre doesn't mean they can ballroom dance," she explained. "The techniques are completely different."
A History of Dance Controversies
This isn't the first time Strictly has faced accusations of an uneven playing field. The show has frequently featured contestants with dance backgrounds, including:
- Former Hollyoaks actress and trained dancer Ashley Roberts
- Ex-EastEnders star and stage performer Jill Halfpenny
- Musical theatre veteran Kelvin Fletcher
- Stage school graduate Faye Tozer from Steps
Ballas argues that this mix of experience levels actually enhances the viewing experience. "We need that balance," she insisted. "The journey is different for everyone, but they all have to learn ballroom from scratch."
The Viewers' Verdict
As the new series prepares to launch, the debate continues to rage among Strictly's loyal fanbase. Some viewers welcome the inclusion of skilled dancers for the spectacular routines they produce, while others yearn for the days of genuine beginners stumbling through their first waltz.
What remains clear is that Ballas isn't backing down from the controversy. Her uncompromising stance sets the stage for what promises to be another dramatic season of sparkles, sequins and behind-the-scenes drama.
With the launch just around the corner, all eyes will be on Davies and her fellow contestants to see if their previous experience gives them the edge - or if the pressure of ballroom proves more challenging than expected.
