Shirley Ballas, head judge on ‘Strictly Come Dancing’, has responded to online trolls calling for her removal from the show after a controversial decision to eliminate singer Shayne Ward last week. The decision sparked a wave of abuse on social media, including a petition demanding her resignation.
In a recent interview ahead of the Blackpool Tower round, the 64-year-old judge expressed her gratitude for the opportunities she’s had on the show despite the criticism. She stated, “If it were to end here tomorrow, I’d be very grateful for the trips that I’ve had. It’s been the trip of a lifetime, for sure.”
Ballas, who has been with *Strictly* for seven years, faced backlash after a shocking dance-off between Shayne Ward and Wynne Evans, in which she voted to save opera singer Evans. In response to the online abuse, Ballas addressed the pressure of her role, saying that she judges without fear or favour, focusing solely on the dancing, including technical aspects like coordination and chemistry between dancers.
Despite the public criticism, Ballas remains firm in her commitment to the show. She added, “I’m not going anywhere as long as the BBC would like to have me.” She also expressed that her decisions are based on her professional judgment and that viewers who don’t vote shouldn’t complain about eliminations.
Shirley also shared personal stories about receiving criticism from friends and family, including her mother, who watches the show from her armchair and occasionally disagrees with her judgments.
“I’ve got a lot of friends who are like, ‘Oh, you shouldn’t have sent this one home; you shouldn’t have sent that one.’ And then I’ll say, ‘Did you vote?’ And they didn’t vote, so you’re not entitled to complain if you don’t vote.”
Despite the controversy, Ballas enjoys the full support of her fellow judges, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, and Craig Revel Horwood. They describe their working relationship as “magnificent” and “fabulous.” The “Fab Four” support each other both on and off-screen, creating a supportive environment for the judges.
Shirley also shared her admiration for the iconic Blackpool Tower ballroom, where the contestants performed last night, calling it “the most iconic ballroom in the world.” She believes the show has the potential to continue for another 20 years, citing its enduring popularity with the public.
Looking ahead, Shirley revealed a playful wish to dance the Rumba with musical icon Tom Jones, whom she has admired since childhood. She also expressed her excitement for her friend Oti Mabuse, a former *Strictly* pro dancer, as she enters the ‘I’m A Celebrity’ jungle, predicting Oti will bring “flair and flavour” to the show.
With four weeks left until the *Strictly* final, Ballas is confident that the show’s legacy will continue, regardless of the online criticism she faces.
