Shirley: I’m not sexist & will stay put
HEAD judge Shirley Ballas has vowed not to let haters drive her off Strictly after some fans accused her of sexism.
The 62-year-old was hit with abuse online after she admitted she would have saved BBC TV and radio personality Richie Anderson ahead of Fleur East in a dance-off three weeks ago.
Some said Shirley favoured men on the show and called for her to step down, saying she had “lost the plot”.
But Shirley hit back and said: “I haven’t got a sexist bone in my body.”
At the Pride of Britain awards this week, she said: “I love everybody. I’m on the show as head judge to give the best critique I can so couples will improve week after week.
“I am not frightened by one or two comments.
“I’ve had all sorts thrown at me throughout my life. I wouldn’t leave that job unless they carted me off.
“I will be there every year with baubles, bangles and beads if they ask me back.”