The BBC have this morning announced what we have been waiting for and told us who will be replacing Len Goodman on the Strictly judging panel in the 2017 series. No it’s not Mr Blobby as claimed in last months April Fools Joke. So who is the new judge?
Shirley Ballas.
Shirley, who retired from dancing competitively in 1996, is nicknamed the “Queen of Latin” and will be taking over completely from Len Goodman as head judge with the casting vote in dance offs.
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Speaking to the BBC Shirley said, “I am so excited and over the moon to have been given this wonderful opportunity. I can’t wait to get in to the ballroom and be part of the incredible and respected judging panel. Strictly is so loved by the British public, I have always been a massive fan. I just can’t wait!”
Darcey Bussell had this to say, “I look forward to meeting Shirley and welcoming her to our Strictly team. Her years of experience in Ballroom and Latin dancing are impressive and I’m sure she will be a great addition to our judging panel.”
Craig Revel Horwood said, “Fantastic news that Shirley will be joining me and the other judges on the panel. I look forward to working with her on the next series of Strictly!”
Bruno Tonioli added, “I know Shirley well – she is an incredible Latin dancer and trainer and I am sure she will be a great addition to the Strictly team.”
Louise Rainbow, Executive Producer of Strictly commented, “I am thrilled that Shirley Ballas has agreed to join our judging panel. The calibre of applicants for this role was exceptional but with her wealth of experience as a World Champion dancer, teacher and judge, she is the perfect fit for Strictly.”
Charlotte Moore, Director of BBC Content said, “Len’s are big shoes to fill, but the ‘Queen of Latin’ is the ideal new Strictly judge. Shirley Ballas is a British ballroom expert whose credentials speak for themselves; she’s going to be a fabulous addition to the best judging panel in showbiz!”
What do you think of the new judge? You can let me know in the comments section, by voting in the poll above or over on Facebook or Twitter. You can read the full BBC press release on the new judge here.