Shirley Ballas wants to keep doing Strictly until she dies.
The dancing star has been the show’s head judge since 2016 and is enjoying it so much she has no plans to quit. Shirley says the only way she’ll leave her beloved show is if she’s sacked or meets her maker.
She told the Daily Star Sunday : “I’ve been on the show for eight years and I’ll stay on it until I pop my clogs.” When Shirley gets offered the chance to do another series of Strictly, she jumps at the chance. The 64-year-old admits it’s a no-brainer because she loves the job so much.
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She said: “Every year, when I’m asked to come back, I have a little think and then I say, ‘Yes, thank you’. The only other reason I’d go is if they don’t want me anymore.” This year marks Shirley’s eighth series, making her the show’s second longest-serving judge ever –behind Craig Revel Horwood.
It’s a dream job for former dance champion Shirley. Not even the abuse she gets from internet trolls can stop her enjoying it.
She said: “Every year, the show is something new and I get to meet new people. It’s family show that everybody in the country really enjoys. It sends positive messages and that’s what I love about it.”
Shirley reckons this series is one of the best yet thanks to the celebrity contestants. Comic Chris McCausland and reality star Pete Wicks, inset right, have become firm favourites among viewers.
But Shirley is warning even the most popular stars are at risk of an early exit. In recent weeks there have been a few shock results that have left everyone stunned.
Shirley added: “Everybody is loving every moment of this series, but it’s unpredictable.
“The leaderboard keeps changing. A few weeks ago we had Shayne Ward fourth on the leaderboard and then he was in the dance-off.
“I think we’re going to see more movement. People need to vote for their favourites.”
This Saturday night (November 2) will see the 10 remaining celebs battle it out on the dance floor for Icons Week. The newly introduced themed night will see contestants dress up and perform as legends of music.
Fan favourite Pete Wicks has confirmed he is taking on the role of Queen frontman, Freddie Mercury, and he and his partner Jowita will do the Salsa to Another One Bites the Dust.
Other routines include Sam Quek and Nikita doing the American Smooth to Love Story by Taylor Swift, and Shayne Ward and Nancy doing the Quickstep to Help! By The Beetles.
However all eyes will be on JB Gill and Amy Dowden, after she fell ill backstage following her Halloween week performance. It is understood that professional dancer Lauren Oakley will step up and take her place on Saturday.
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