Strictly judge Shirley Ballas ‘promises to return to show’ despite breaking her ankle
STRICTLY judge Shirley Ballas has 'promised to return to the show' despite breaking her ankle.
The 59-year-old head judge suffered a "clean break" to her ankle at the beginning of July.
Shirley has her foot in plaster but is determined to return to the BBC dancing show, which will start later this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
However, her injury means she won't be able to dance on at the start of each show, but a source close to Shirley insists it won't hinder her being in the studio.
Speaking to , they said: "She’ll definitely be back on Strictly. No reason for her not to be as she doesn’t need to dance to be on the panel but she will be out of the plaster by then.
“The boot she had wasn’t secure enough, so she has been put in plaster to make sure the bones heal correctly.”
Strictly returns in October, rather than it's usual September date, and will run for a shorter number of weeks than previous years.
Speaking about this year's series on Loose Women earlier this month, Shirley said: "I am absolutely positive that they will bring the best show that they can.”
However, earlier this month The Sun revealed Strictly is likely to ditch the live music performances from this year's series.
As part of safety precautions put in place, all of this year’s group dances have been pre-recorded – meaning the routines fans were treated to in front of a live musician are already a thing of the past.
But with lockdown lifting, bosses are considering whether live music could feature in the studio after all.
A telly insider said: “It’s seemingly impossible at this stage to recreate safely what has been a norm in previous years.
“Although live music from acts is still being considered, it’s unlikely to include any big international stars and could be filmed away from the studio because of safety concerns.
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“Given the current restrictions, it’s a planning nightmare.
"Dave Arch and his band will be returning to the show but their roles will be modified to ensure they can perform safely.
“Everyone is hoping they will be able to play live in the studio. But as with everything, it’s totally up in the air.”