Shirley Ballas, often referred to as the "Queen of Latin," has had a remarkable career in the world of ballroom dancing, judging, and teaching. Known for her elegance, precision, and expertise, she has become a household name in the UK, thanks to her role as head judge on the popular television show "Strictly Come Dancing." Born on September 6, 1960, Shirley is now 64 years old, but her energy and passion for dance continue to inspire millions worldwide.
In 2024, Shirley remains in the spotlight, not only for her work on "Strictly Come Dancing" but also for her openness about personal challenges, such as her breast reduction surgery in 2019 and her health and fitness journey. Shirley’s legacy in the world of dance is undeniable, and she continues to be a respected figure in both the entertainment and dance industries.
Key Takeaways
- Shirley Ballas, a renowned ballroom dancer, is currently 64 years old.
- She is a prominent head judge on the hit show "Strictly Come Dancing" since 2017.
- Shirley has had a long and successful career in Latin and ballroom dancing, winning multiple championships.
- She has openly shared her journey through breast reduction surgery and a recent focus on fitness.
- Shirley has been in a relationship with actor Danny Taylor since 2019.
Shirley Ballas – The Queen of Latin Dance
Shirley Ballas began dancing at the young age of 7 and quickly excelled in the world of ballroom dancing. Specializing in Latin dance, she earned numerous titles throughout her career, including the Professional Latin Champion title at the prestigious Blackpool Dance Festival. Due to her unmatched talent, Shirley gained the nickname "The Queen of Latin."
She retired from competitive dancing in 1996 but did not step away from the dance world entirely. Instead, she transitioned into teaching and became a highly respected dance adjudicator. Her experience as a professional dancer helped her develop a reputation as one of the best in the industry, making her the perfect fit for her current role as head judge on "Strictly Come Dancing."
| Shirley Ballas: Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | September 6, 1960 |
| Age (2024) | 64 years old |
| Specialization | International Latin Dance |
| Career Highlights | Multiple Latin dance titles, Professional Latin Champion |
| Role on TV | Head Judge, "Strictly Come Dancing" (since 2017) |
How Old is Shirley Ballas?
Many fans often wonder, "How old is Shirley Ballas?" Shirley was born on September 6, 1960, which means she turned 64 years old in 2024. Despite her age, she maintains an active lifestyle, dancing, judging, and even sharing her fitness journey with fans. She continues to captivate audiences with her passion for dance and her elegant presence on screen.
Shirley Ballas and Her Role on Strictly Come Dancing
In 2017, Shirley joined "Strictly Come Dancing" as the head judge, replacing Len Goodman. Since then, she has been a key figure on the show, using her decades of experience in ballroom dancing to provide insightful critiques and encouragement to contestants. Shirley’s sharp eye for technique, coupled with her warmth and enthusiasm, has made her a fan favorite.
Her role on "Strictly" goes beyond just judging. Shirley has become a mentor to many of the dancers, helping them improve their skills while also giving them the confidence to perform at their best. Her ability to balance tough love with kindness has earned her the respect of both viewers and dancers alike.
Shirley Ballas’ Dancing Career
Shirley’s dancing career is nothing short of legendary. From her early days in competitive dance to becoming a top international ballroom dancer, she has won multiple championships. Her dancing career saw her partnering with some of the best male dancers in the industry, including Sammy Stopford and Corky Ballas.
She and Corky Ballas were married in 1985 and became an unstoppable team on the dance floor. Together, they won several titles, and their son, Mark Ballas, also followed in their dancing footsteps, achieving fame in his own right.
Shirley’s impressive career transitioned into teaching and judging after she stopped competing. Today, she continues to be a guiding force for aspiring dancers worldwide.
Shirley Ballas’ Breast Reduction Journey
In 2019, Shirley underwent breast reduction surgery due to health concerns and her family’s history of breast cancer. She had previously had breast implants but decided to have them removed to reduce her risk of complications. Shirley has been open about the positive impact the surgery had on her life, mentioning how it improved both her physical health and self-confidence.
Shirley’s decision to share her story has encouraged others to prioritize their health and has sparked important conversations around the topic of cosmetic surgeries and self-care.
Shirley Ballas’ Partner and Personal Life
Shirley Ballas has been in a relationship with actor Danny Taylor since 2019. The couple met while performing in a pantomime together and have been inseparable ever since. Before Danny, Shirley had been married twice—to fellow ballroom dancers Sammy Stopford and Corky Ballas. With Corky, she shares a son, Mark Ballas, who is also a professional dancer and well-known for his role on the U.S. version of "Dancing with the Stars."
Shirley’s personal life is just as full as her professional one. Despite her busy schedule with "Strictly Come Dancing" and other dance-related projects, she continues to maintain strong relationships with her family and partner.
FAQs
How old is Shirley Ballas in 2024?
Shirley Ballas is 64 years old as of 2024. She was born on September 6, 1960.
What is Shirley Ballas known for?
Shirley Ballas is known for her successful career as a ballroom dancer, her role as head judge on "Strictly Come Dancing," and her expertise in Latin dance. She is also recognized for her openness about her breast reduction surgery and health journey.
Who is Shirley Ballas’ current partner?
Shirley Ballas is currently in a relationship with actor Danny Taylor. They have been together since 2019.
When did Shirley Ballas join "Strictly Come Dancing"?
Shirley Ballas joined "Strictly Come Dancing" as head judge in 2017, replacing Len Goodman.
What is Shirley Ballas’ dancing background?
Shirley Ballas is a former competitive ballroom dancer specializing in Latin dance. She has won numerous titles, including the Professional Latin Champion at the Blackpool Dance Festival.
Why did Shirley Ballas undergo breast reduction surgery?
Shirley Ballas decided to have breast reduction surgery in 2019 due to health concerns and her family history of breast cancer. She has been open about the positive impact this decision had on her health and well-being.