Getting To Know… Shirley Ballas
Strictly’s new judge has warm words for the viewers, her predecessor and the celebs who do what they’re told…
◆ I’ve always been a huge fan of Strictly and I find the show so inspiring. It’s not just about the professional dancers and celebrities taking part, there could be young or old people out there who are watching and they might also be inspired to take up dancing, and I find that so special. Being able to inspire people is a really big part of what I want to share on Strictly.
◆ When I was told the news that I was to be the new Strictly judge, I did actually fall to my knees, I couldn’t believe it! The first person I called was my son, Mark, and as soon as he answered he said, “You got it, didn’t you?” I didn’t even have to say it out loud!
◆ When it comes to judging, it’s all about the four F’s; fun, firm, feisty and fair. I may look and come across as quite strict, but I want the celebrities to know that when they are stood in front of me my heart will be pumping a thousand miles an hour for them and I’ll want to give them comments to inspire them to be the best dancer they can be.
◆ However, I can also be strict. If I ask them to do something and they don’t deliver it the following week I’m not going to tell them that it’s OK. I’m not that kind of judge.
◆ I’m very excited about being in everybody’s living room on a Saturday evening. I’m enjoying sharing this journey with people watching at home.
◆ I’ve known Len since I started in the dance industry many years ago. We have remained friends and at any dinner party we were at together, he was the life and soul of the party. Len always had great things to say about my dancing and I’m a big fan of his sense of humour and his insight into ballroom dancing. He played such an iconic role on Strictly and I know the viewers adored him!