Strictly's Shirley Ballas promises to be on show until she dies – despite abuse

judge has vowed to stay on the show until she "pops" her "clogs."

The 64 year old TV star and former professional dancer said that every year she is asked if she wants to return to the show, she "jumps at the chance" and vows to do so until she is not needed anymore. Speaking to the , she said: "I’ve been on the show for eight years and I’ll stay on it until I pop my clogs."

Shirley, who sits beside her fellow judges Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke, has been on the judging panel since 2016. She continued: "Every year, when I’m asked to come back, I have a little think and then I say, ‘Yes, thank you’. The only other reason I’d go is if they don’t want me anymore."

And the reason behind her decision to remain on the until she "pops" her "clogs" is down to the fact that every year she gets to meet new people. She added: "Every year, the show is something new and I get to meet new people. It’s family show that everybody in the country really enjoys. It sends positive messages and that’s what I love about it."

Despite contestant Chris McCausland and being among the favourites to win the show this year, Shirley was keen to reiterate that popular stars are still at risk of being eliminated. Shirley replaced Len Goodman eight years ago and has had her fair share of both negative and positive comments by viewers.

The TV star went on to say: "Everybody is loving every moment of this series, but it’s unpredictable. The leaderboard keeps changing. A few weeks ago we had Shayne Ward fourth on the leaderboard and then he was in the dance-off. I think we’re going to see more movement. People need to vote for their favourites."

This weekend ten couples will compete to make it through to the following week as they perform for Icons Week. Dressed as their musical heroes, the former TOWIE star has revealed that he will be dressed as and his professional dance partner Jowita, will perform the Salsa to Another One Bites The Dust.

Sam Quek and her dance partner will perform the American Smooth to Love Story by , while Shayne Ward will be doing the Quickstep to Help, by the Beatles. JB Gill will be dancing with Lauren Oakley this weekend as Amy Dowden takes time off to fully recover after collapsing backstage last week.

But when appearing on the BBC's spin-off show It Takes Two, she said that she was feeling a lot better. Sending a message of support to the JLS singer, she wrote on social media: "Wishing these two the absolute best of luck tonight! I’m going to be your biggest cheerleader!"

She added: "JB it says everything how you’ve been able to adapt to a new professional, produce such a great number ( so excited for everyone to see) whilst supporting me! I’m so lucky! You’re a STAR! I know what tonight means to you! Thank you!"

She then continued: "Thank you, I knew Jay would be in safe hands and have a fabulous time with you! You know I’ve always adored your dancing since I ran up to you in Blackpool tower at 8 years old to tell you! Thank you darling!" Speaking of her recovery, Amy told viewers: "I’m feeling so much better and I’d just like to thank everyone for all the love and support I’ve received and to my Strictly family – feeling much better."

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