Strictly Come Dancing’s head judge, Shirley Ballas, recently shared an emotional moment that touched the hearts of many fans. Known for her sharp critiques and commanding presence on the dance floor, Shirley revealed a softer side when she opened up about a deeply personal and heartwarming gesture from her mum.

This touching moment came to light during an interview about her memoir, where Shirley was moved to tears by a letter her mum wrote, a letter she had never seen before.

In her memoir, *Best Foot Forward*, Shirley Ballas not only chronicles her remarkable career in dance but also shares intimate life lessons and personal stories. However, it was the inclusion of a letter from her 88-year-old mother at the end of the book that truly struck a chord. Shirley explained that her mum, typically a woman of few words, penned a deeply emotional letter that caught her completely off guard.

During a recent interview on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show on Virgin Radio, Shirley admitted that she hadn’t read the letter until it was time to record the audiobook version of her memoir. The letter was so moving that Shirley found it difficult to read aloud, revealing emotions she had never expressed publicly before. She said, “I think when she wrote that letter at the end, which totally caught me off guard because I hadn’t seen that letter, it was just suddenly there at the end in the book.”

The letter delved into feelings and memories that Shirley had never heard from her mother, making it a profoundly emotional experience. Shirley reflected on the depth of the letter, saying, “She really goes in it quite deep, and for my mother, those things that she wrote in there I’d never heard before.” This rare glimpse into her mother’s thoughts and feelings added a new layer of understanding and connection between them.

 

Shirley Ballas first joined *Strictly Come Dancing* in 2017, stepping into the role of head judge after Len Goodman’s departure. Since then, she has become a beloved figure on the show, admired for her expertise, honesty, and passion for dance. Her journey from a professional ballroom dancer to a respected judge has been inspiring to many.

The latest series of *Strictly Come Dancing* recently kicked off, with Shirley returning to her judging seat. The show continues to captivate audiences every week, showcasing incredible talent and unforgettable performances. For example, in a recent episode, Karen Carney and her partner Carlos Gu impressed the judges with a dynamic routine to Blondie’s ‘One Way or Another,’ earning high scores and praise.

Shirley’s emotional story about her mum adds a touching human element to her public persona, reminding fans that behind the stern judging panel is a woman with deep family bonds and heartfelt emotions.

The emotional letter from Shirley’s mum resonates with many because it highlights the power of family support and the importance of expressing love and appreciation. In a world where public figures often appear distant or unapproachable, moments like these reveal their vulnerability and humanity.

Fans of *Strictly Come Dancing* have responded with warmth and empathy, sharing their own stories of family love and emotional surprises. Shirley’s openness about her feelings encourages others to cherish their loved ones and to be open about their emotions.

Shirley Ballas’s tearful reaction to her mum’s heartfelt letter is a beautiful reminder of the profound impact family gestures can have, even on the most strong-willed individuals. This touching story not only deepens our appreciation for Shirley as a judge and dancer but also as a daughter who treasures her mother’s love. If you want to experience more of Shirley’s inspiring journey and heartfelt moments, be sure to watch *Strictly Come Dancing* on BBC One every Saturday at 6:20 pm. Don’t miss out on the magic—tune in and witness the passion, emotion, and incredible talent unfold on the dance floor!