BBC Strictly's Shirley Ballas admits to 'pulling professional dancers up' over bullying

Olivia Gantzer
Sat, 11 Apr 2026 17:28:01 +0000

Shirley Ballas has spoken out about tackling bullying within the dance industry, revealing she actively challenges professional dancers over their conduct.

The 65-year-old judge discussed how she supports those who may face mistreatment in the profession.

"I'm always taking care of other people that perhaps are bullied and I'm always pulling the professionals up on their behaviour," she told The Times.

The Strictly Come Dancing star previously addressed bullying and misogyny in her 2021 memoir, Behind the Sequins: My Life.

Her latest comments arrive as the BBC programme continues to navigate the aftermath of multiple misconduct allegations that have emerged since 2023, fundamentally altering the show's reputation as wholesome family viewing.

The allegations first emerged when Amanda Abbington departed the programme after just a few weeks in 2023, accusing her partner Giovanni Pernice of "inappropriate, mean, nasty bullying" behaviour.

Mr Pernice, who had been popular with colleagues, judges and audiences alike, rejected the claims made against him.

The BBC removed the dancer from the show in June 2024 while conducting an internal review.

Following months of investigation, the corporation confirmed it had upheld complaints relating to verbal bullying and harassment, though accusations of physical aggression were not substantiated.

Good Morning Britain's Ranvir Singh, who partnered with Pernice in 2020, commented at the time: "Don't be fooled by his angelic face! He is a fiery Italian, super strict."

The programme faced further turmoil when a second professional dancer became embroiled in controversy during the same period.

Graziano Di Prima was accused of physically mistreating his celebrity partner Zara McDermott during their time together on the show.

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A spokesperson for the dancer confirmed he had kicked Ms McDermott during rehearsal sessions, leading to his dismissal from Strictly.

Mr Di Prima issued an apology for his actions but sought to explain his conduct, suggesting his "intense passion and determination to win" may have contributed to his harsh approach during training.

The successive scandals prompted the BBC to strengthen its duty of care protocols, with recent reports suggesting as many as five professional dancers may not return for the upcoming series.

Despite her willingness to address behavioural issues within the dance world, Ms Ballas clarified that her involvement on the programme itself remains strictly limited.

When asked whether celebrity contestants approach her for guidance or assistance, she explained the boundaries of her position.

"Well, you see, on the programme, I have a lane that I stay in," she said.

"I am a judge and I can talk about your feet, your body, your legs, your arms, your synchronisation, all of that. I don't get involved in anything else."