Shirley Ballas is back on our screens, heading up the judging panel of Strictly Come Dancing for its 20th anniversary series. When she’s not critiquing the dances, the star, 64, is busy writing novels – she’s on her second novel, Dance To The Death – and doting on her 10-month-old grandson, Banksi.
How is this series going so far?
In eight years, I’ve never laughed as much in all my life! Particularly with the likes of Chris McCausland and Wynne Evans.
What do you think about the Strictly drama over the past year?
I think going into this series, there’s been a shadow that’s been cast over the show. There’s always one, but when you walk away from this show, 99.9% of people have had the time of their life. It's been running for 20 years, and it brings so much joy to so many people, so let’s not forget that and bring some positivity to the country.
What else do you hope 2025 will bring?
Releasing my new book, Dance To The Death, and there’s two more after this, so getting stuck into that. And I want to see my grandson, Banksi Wylde, a lot more. [Shirley’s son, Mark Ballas, and wife, BC Jean, live in America].
Does he have a nickname for you?
Oh, ‘glam-ma’ of course! I think he’s going to be a musician. His parents do music from home and he sits there for hours listening to them. He likes to play the piano and drums, and is already trying to sing with his mother. I think he’s got music in his bones.
What else does the future have in store?
I just want to keep pushing the envelope for somebody who’s 64. I’ve been to the Juicy Oasis Retreat with Jason Vale, and I’ve cut out sugar and coffee. And I’m really noticing a difference with my yoga, walking and cold plunge. I want to take some time for myself, I think it’s time to take a step back and just focus on myself.