Shirley Ballas, 59, is set to return as head judge for Strictly Come Dancing’s first-ever socially distanced season. In light of the coronavirus pandemic, certain changes are being made to ensure the award-winning BBC Saturday night dance show can still go-ahead. A shorter run has already been confirmed but now the former professional dancer has revealed what surprises viewers can look forward to as proceedings look set to be very different this autumn.
Speaking to Express.co.uk and other press following Strictly winning the Best Entertainment Programme category at the Virgin Media BAFTA Television Awards, Shirley said: “Let me tell you, you cannot miss it.
“They have got so many things lined up. Some of them are a bit [shocking]. It’s one of those shows.
“I know Sarah James [Executive Producer] and Jo Wallace [Commissioning Editor] have done absolutely everything in their power to bring light and just happiness to people for the autumn and winter months.
“You will not be disappointed, that I can tell you,” she teased before talking more about some of the changes being put in place.
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The head judge continued: “Inside social distancing, you have to be creative.”
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“We have one of the best minds in the business for creativity [working on the show]. They’ll take those rules and stick to them,” Shirley added.
“Those boys and girls are professionals who are the best in the world. They will bring to the forefront the most magnificent talents that they can create.
“I think you will be surprised – you will be quite shocked – I am,” the judge continued, so it seems fans should certainly be tuning in later this year.
With a shorter season just months away, the rumour mill is already going into overdrive as to who could be taking part.
Unfortunately, he only managed to secure third place, so could he go all the way and get his hands on the Glitterball Trophy?
Also rumoured to be strutting their stuff on the dance floor is Love Island voiceover artist, Iain Stirling, 32.
Coral bookmakers once again predict the comedian will be taking part, putting his odds of signing up at 1/3.
“We think it’s almost a done deal for Iain to line-up on Strictly this year. He’s odds on to be a contestant for the 2020 series,” spokesperson Harry Aitkenhead said.
The Great British Bake Off judge Paul Hollywood, 54, could be swapping the backdrop of a tent for the Strictly dance floor later this year.
At 5/2, Coral bookmakers see him as a strong contender to take part, with his chances of winning at 33/1.
John Hill said: “Paul Hollywood knows all the right steps when it comes to baking a loaf, but we are likely to find out if he is comfortable on the dance floor this year on Strictly.
“Hollywood is known for being harsh on his contestants in the Great British Bake Off and we think he may get a taste of his own medicine from the Strictly judges this year.”
Strictly Come Dancing returns later this year on BBC One.