Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas was moved to tears during a recent appearance on It Takes Two after being surprised with a video message from her son, professional dancer Mark Ballas.
The 66-year-old judge is celebrating ten years on the programme, having recently taken on an additional role as a guest judge on the American series Dancing with the Stars.
Double Duty on Both Shows
Despite the new commitment, Ballas made clear she has no intention of leaving the UK show. Speaking about her Dancing with the Stars role, she said: "It's double duty this year. That was a job I've always wanted. It's been on my wishlist."
She added: "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
Looking back on her time on the show, Ballas said: "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."
During the It Takes Two episode, presenter Ellie Taylor praised Ballas as an "incredible" judge before the head judge was shown a surprise compilation of her Strictly highlights over the years.
Son Mark's Heartfelt Tribute
In the footage, Mark Ballas, a professional on Dancing with the Stars, offered a personal tribute. 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."
Following his remarks, alongside tributes from fellow Strictly stars including Lauren Oakley and Diane Buswell, Ballas found herself fighting 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."
She added: "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. 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.
