Struggles with Body Image
As the head judge on Strictly Come Dancing, Shirley Ballas is no stranger to being in the spotlight. However, she recently revealed that she has always felt pressure to stay slim as a dancer. In an interview, Ballas admitted that her fears and self-loathing stem from years of being compared to other dancers and hearing negative comments about her appearance. Despite these struggles, she hopes that people will learn to embrace their own beauty and feel comfortable in their own skin.
Strict Diet on Strictly
Ballas also shared that she has to be mindful of her diet, especially when she's preparing for a new season of Strictly. She even brings her own meals to the set to avoid temptation. While the catering at the show offers delicious treats like cakes and biscuits, Ballas knows that those calorie-rich foods are not suitable for her. Instead, she opts for healthy options like lemon chicken, salad, and sushi.
Evolution of the Industry
Ballas reflected on her professional dance career in the Eighties and Nineties, noting that back then, the industry had strict beauty standards. She shared stories of being judged for her weight and feeling the need to conform to a certain body type. However, she believes that the industry has changed over the years and is now more accepting of different body shapes and sizes.
Dealing with Trolling
Being a public figure comes with its fair share of online trolling, and Ballas is no exception. She has experienced horrific online abuse, including death threats and personal attacks on her appearance. While she finds it difficult to read these comments, she refuses to let the trolls win. Ballas remains active on social media and continues to engage with her fans, who have overwhelmingly shown their support for her.
Love Life and Career
Addressing the rumors of a split with her partner Danny Taylor, Ballas confirmed that they are still together after four and a half years. She praised Taylor for his understanding and support of her busy lifestyle. In addition to her role on Strictly, Ballas has been in the dance industry for over five decades and remains dedicated to her craft.
