Yahoo News Strictly's Shirley Ballas would be 'honoured' to return
This year's Strictly Come Dancing saw Shirley Ballas take over from Len Goodman on the judging panel – and the newbie has now confirmed that she'd be 'honoured' to come back in 2018.
In an interview with The Sun, Shirley said: "I've had a brilliant experience. One never presumes – but I have enjoyed it. It would be an honour if one was to be asked back for such a magnificent show."
She added: "It's been life-changing. It's beyond what I ever dreamed and expected. Thank god the ratings didn't go down."
Shirley also opened up about Strictly pro Brendan Cole, revealing: "He's confrontational. Every other professional was extremely respectful, very well-mannered, 'How are you Mrs Ballas? You're doing a good job.'
"I was quite surprised. I got my feelings hurt because when he was with Camilla [Dallerup] all those years ago they came to our home, had dinner," she continued.
"But again, in my industry I'm used to that. He's going on chat shows saying I'm her equal and this, that and the other. I don't need to put somebody else down to build myself up."
Previously, Brendan made headlines after he accused the head judge of being overly harsh on his celeb partner Charlotte Hawkins – who was eliminated from the competition afterwards.
Last month, reports in The Sun claimed that the pair's relationship had become so sour that he "hurled abuse" at Shirley during a live show.
However, Brendan responded, saying: "I wasn't [hurling abuse at Shirley]. If someone is under-marked, we all shout out 'under-marked' – apparently, that means I'm hurling abuse at Shirley."
"They've also said that I've been ignoring Shirley backstage, but I haven't seen Shirley backstage! Shirley, if I do ever see you backstage, I am going to ignore you out of principle!"
He added: "Shirley and I actually go way back. I don't necessarily like what she did to us on our journey, but the BBC are loving her, some of the fans are loving her too, although some are hating her."
Strictly Come Dancing continues with its grand final on BBC One this weekend.
Want up-to-the-minute entertainment news and features? Just hit 'Like' on our Digital Spy Facebook page and 'Follow' on our @digitalspy Twitter account and you're all set.
You Might Also Like
