Strictly Judge Shirley Ballas to Guest Star on Dancing With the Stars Amid Show Departures Rumors

Shirley Ballas, the head judge of the BBC's popular ballroom dancing competition "Strictly Come Dancing," is reportedly set to make a guest appearance on the American show "Dancing With the Stars." This move comes amid growing concerns that all four judges on "Strictly" might be considering departures from the program.

Ballas, 66, is currently a judge on the ongoing "Strictly" series. Reports suggest she will travel to the U.S. later this month to film her appearance on "Dancing With the Stars." The filming is expected to take place on a Tuesday in Los Angeles, with Ballas flying back to the UK the following day to resume her "Strictly" duties. A source described the schedule as "whirlwind" but noted that Ballas "jumped at the chance to take part."

This potential move follows in the footsteps of former "Strictly" judges Bruno Tonioli and the late Len Goodman, both of whom also transitioned to judging roles on the American show. While Ballas's appearance is currently planned as a one-off for the current season, there is a possibility of a more permanent role if U.S. television executives deem her a suitable fit.

Ballas's potential guest stint on "Dancing With the Stars" occurs as "Strictly" faces significant uncertainty regarding its judging panel. Reports indicate that the contracts for all four judges – Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Anton Du Beke, and Motsi Mabuse – are set to conclude at the end of the current season. This situation has reportedly caused alarm among BBC bosses, especially following the departures of hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly. There are fears that any controversy surrounding the show's recent format changes could lead the judges to seek opportunities elsewhere.

Brand and culture expert Nick Ede believes that an international move to "Dancing With the Stars" could be a significant career boost for Ballas, potentially making her an "even bigger star" in the U.S. Ballas has prior experience with the American show, having served as a judge on the "Dancing With the Stars" spin-off series, "The Next Pro," alongside her son Mark Ballas, who is a professional dancer on the main show. Ede noted that Ballas possesses the "personality, the expertise and the glamour" that American audiences typically appreciate.

Concerns about the "Strictly" judging panel extend beyond Ballas. The judges reportedly sought an 11% pay increase in 2023, which was largely refused by BBC management, who instead offered a 3-5% raise. Sources suggest that further pay disputes could influence the judges' decisions about renewing their contracts. Some insiders have also pointed to Ballas's desire to spend more time with her grandchildren in the U.S. as a potential reason for her departure.

Former "Strictly" professional dancer James Jordan has also suggested that the show could benefit from a judging panel refresh, citing a perceived predictability in their comments and a desire for a "freshen up."