Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas has spoken exclusively about the heartache of watching her mother Audrey, 88, suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), describing it as a 'slow death'. Despite her own pleas, Shirley admits that 'nobody will stop her smoking' as the habit remains deeply ingrained.
Return to the Ballroom
The 65-year-old dancer is set to reprise her role on the judging panel this autumn alongside Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton du Beke. Shirley, who has been part of the BBC show since 2017, expressed her excitement: 'This year is unbelievable. It's like a rebirth, a relaunch. The public can't stand not knowing what's coming, but I do, and it's thrilling.' She added that the show brings families together during the colder months, with viewers of all ages invested in the glitter and drama.
Speculation and New Professionals
Amid rumours of new hosts and professional dancer shake-ups, Shirley dismissed gossip as harmless fun. 'People love speculation, but the judges are confirmed, and we have five fantastic new professionals who will be announced soon,' she said.
Caregiver Struggles
Balancing her demanding role with caring for her mother, who lives with her in London, has been challenging. Shirley, an ambassador for Asthma & Lung UK, described COPD as a 'slow digression' that requires constant vigilance. 'If she catches a cold, it can turn into pneumonia. It's a 24/7 worry. People don't realise what it takes to care for someone with COPD,' she said.
Her mother smoked for most of her life, except for 18 months after the death of Shirley's brother David, who took his own life in 2003. 'Under stress she stopped, but now nobody will stop her. She's nearly 90, she'll have a whisky and a smoke, and she knows the consequences. But it's so addictive,' Shirley explained.
Call for Government Action
Shirley urged the government to increase NHS research funding for lung conditions. 'COPD patients are costing the NHS beds, but with proper diagnosis and monitoring, hospital visits could be reduced. Care is a postcode lottery. My mum has me, but many people lack support. The government must do more,' she said.
She also called for a reconsideration of the assisted dying bill, blocked by the House of Lords last month. 'If there's no hope and a slow, painful death awaits, people should have the right to choose. If my mother wanted that, I'd support her,' Shirley stated.
Upcoming Projects
Shirley will join her son Mark, 39, to judge Dancing With The Stars: The Next Pro in the US this July. She also supports the Breathe Equal campaign and will attend the Chelsea Flower Show 2026 to promote Asthma & Lung UK's Breathing Space Garden.
