Shirley Ballas struggling with deteriorating back condition: Will it affect her future on Strictly?

After a year full of challenges and drama for the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, the show's fans have been hit with some more worrying news. As head judge on Strictly, Shirley Ballas has been a key part of the show's success—here’s how much she makes as a Strictly Judge. Known for her sharp critique and extensive knowledge of ballroom dance, she has been a part of the BBC programme since 2017.

In the past, Shirley has often said she takes ‘one day at a time’ when it comes to Strictly. Her enthusiasm for the show is unmatched, but behind the scenes, she has been battling severe back issues that have progressively worsened over the years.

Shirley Ballas needs to undergo back surgery

At 63, the talented dancer is facing a tough personal challenge as she contemplates back surgery. Shirley recently revealed that her back has deteriorated over the past year, with the pain becoming increasingly severe.

In an interview with OK! Magazine, Shirley shared that she has consulted multiple specialists and has been informed that spinal surgery is inevitable. She said:

I've been to see three specialists and I may need surgery. It's not a choice, I will have to get it sorted.

Shirley went on to explain that she has been in touch with top experts from across the globe and has unwavering support from her family. She shared:

I'm on it like a car bonnet. I am working and making sure I'm seeing the best people on both sides of the Atlantic - in the United States and here. My whole family's involved in it, and I have some great people with some great advice.

With her deteriorating back condition, the Strictly star is now realising the importance of a ‘slow life’ and is considering cutting back on her long work hours. She added:

It's time to not work such long hours.

Will Shirley Ballas’ health issues affect the Strictly Come Dancing 2024 schedule?

While Shirley is cutting back on her work hours, she clearly specified this wouldn’t include her TV work. As for her surgery, she revealed that she would be undergoing it after Strictly is over. Meaning, StrictlyComeDancingwill not be affected by it.

She told the publication:

It can wait until after Strictly because I have a high tolerance for pain anyway, and it's something I've been living with for many, many years, but it's just deteriorated over the course of the last year.

She emphasised that her back issues will not prevent her from performing her duties, joking that she intends to stay in her judge's chair for as long as possible, reports The Express. She said:

You'd have to shovel me out of my chair. I'm going to sit in that chair for as long as they'll have me.

The new series, marking Strictly’s 20th anniversary, is set to return to our TV screens at 7:20 pm on Saturday 14 September 2024. According to the BBC, Janette Manrara and Fleur East will also return to BBC Two and iPlayer with Strictly: It Takes Two from 6:30 pm on Monday 23 September, offering all the behind-the-scenes action.

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Sources used

OK! Magazine: Strictly's Shirley Ballas shares surgery nightmare as she 'takes a step back' from work

The Express: Shirley Ballas shares devastating health news just days before BBC Strictly launch

BBC: Strictly Come Dancing 2024 - Everything you need to know about the new series and 20th anniversary celebrations