Dance bullies inspired Strictly judge Ballas

Shirley Ballas has revealed she was inspired to pursue her new role as head judge of Strictly Come Dancing after being bullied by men at “the very top” of the dance world.

Ballas, 57, who replaced Len Goodman on the hit BBC One show, said the “bullying” went on for so “many years”, she wondered how “I’m still standing”.

Speaking about her career in the “Latin and ballroom” world, she told ITV’S Loose Women: “We’re a maledominated industry … It’s been really quite suppressing. I look at myself at 57 and wonder how I’m still standing in an industry where there’s a tremendous amount of jealousy … but I’m still here. I think I’m a strong character.”