Shirley Ballas Responds to Brendan Cole’s Controversial Claims

Shirley Ballas has publicly addressed past tensions with former *Strictly Come Dancing* professional Brendan Cole, who suggested that a disagreement with the head judge contributed to his departure from the popular BBC dance show in 2018. Cole, who had been a fixture on the show since its launch in 2004, was reportedly let go due to concerns about his behaviour, which he described as “difficult to work with.”

In a recent interview on ITV’s *Lorraine*, Cole expressed his shock at being removed from the show, claiming it was a surprise decision that left him feeling “quite emotional and a bit raw.” He suggested that an “editorial decision” had been made regarding his exit and indicated that he regretted the way he handled a previous critique from Ballas during a performance with *Good Morning Britain* star Charlotte Hawkins.

Cole recounted a moment when he used the phrase “I will, my dear” in response to Ballas’s suggestion that he review a video of their tango. Reflecting on this, he acknowledged that the phrase came across as patronising, a tone he did not intend. “I’m not a patronising person,” he emphasized, noting how the competitive nature of the show heightened his emotions.

“I knew I was vulnerable,” he explained. “You want to stay in the show, and you can’t put a foot wrong. Before long, you’re in a s***storm.”

Shirley’s Response in New Publication

In her forthcoming book, *Best Foot Forward*, set to release in 2025, Ballas has responded to Cole’s comments. She alleges that Cole had expressed scepticism regarding her appointment as head judge after replacing Len Goodman. In a notable exchange with *It Takes Two* host Zoe Ball, Cole purportedly remarked that it was Ballas who should be looking to impress the professional dancers, not the other way around.

Ballas interpreted this as a precursor to the tensions that followed, asserting, “That set the tone, and he paved the way to disaster from there.” She suggested that Cole’s remarks likely stemmed from disappointment over not being selected for the head judge role himself, implying that he was attempting to undermine her authority.

The situation culminated during week three of the competition, where the “my dear” incident became a focal point of public discussion.

Ballas’s reflections on Cole’s conduct come as she prepares for her appearance on *Saturday Kitchen Live* on BBC One on January 10, where she will discuss her experiences and insights further.

This exchange of accusations highlights the complexities and pressures within the competitive environment of *Strictly Come Dancing*, shedding light on the interpersonal dynamics that can influence the show’s atmosphere.