Shirley Ballas Shares Behind-the-Scenes 'Icons Week' Photos Amidst BBC Departure Fears
The 'Strictly Come Dancing' head judge donned a Lady Gaga costume, while reports emerge of BBC concerns over her potential exit.
Shirley Ballas, the head judge of BBC's 'Strictly Come Dancing', has offered a glimpse into the show's recent 'Icons week' by sharing behind-the-scenes photographs. Ballas, 66, was costumed as pop superstar Lady Gaga, complete with a bright yellow wig, a replica headpiece featuring a telephone, a shimmering nude dress, a white apron, and towering platform heels.
One of the shared images shows Ballas perched on a toilet, captioned with a playful invitation to 'Swipe for lady gaga sitting on a loo…'. Another photo features her leaning against a black motorcycle, reminiscent of one used by Gaga in her 'Born This Way' music video. Ballas also shared a moment of her having her makeup retouched backstage.
This display comes as reports suggest BBC executives are apprehensive about the potential departure of Ballas when her contract concludes next year. Insiders have indicated that following the exit of former hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, there is anxiety among bosses that the judging panel might also disband. Ballas, along with fellow judges Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood, and Anton Du Beke, are all contracted until the end of the current season.
Speculation is mounting that Ballas may not return for what would be her eleventh series, with rumors suggesting she might relocate to the United States to be closer to her son, Mark Ballas, a professional dancer on 'Dancing With The Stars', and her grandchildren. A source close to the show stated that while the judges' return provided continuity, "anything could happen." The terms of their contracts are set to be renegotiated, and the possibility exists that if the BBC's offers are not satisfactory, judges might choose not to return.
In 2023, the judging panel reportedly sought an 11% pay increase, which was met with resistance from BBC bosses. Ultimately, the judges received raises ranging from 3% to 5%. A show insider commented that further significant salary increases are unlikely, especially given a reported drop of approximately 1.5 million viewers for the current season. The present season features a new presenting team, including Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe, with Willis reportedly well-regarded, while Widdicombe and Radebe have faced criticism.
During the 'Icons week' broadcast, contestant Dani Dyer received commendation from the judges for her rumba performance to Mariah Carey's "Hero." Ballas specifically praised Dyer's timing and movement, awarding her 25 points for the routine.