Strictly Come Dancing’s Shirley Ballas has revealed she is taking some time off, after facing an “immense amount of trolling” in recent weeks.
The dancer, who is the head judge on the BBC show, said she is going to “get myself together for the new year” by enjoying some time away for the “first time ever”.
She told S magazine: “It’s the first time I’ve taken any time off – ever! I’m taking two and a half weeks off, because of the immense amount of trolling I got throughout this series.”
“I decided I wouldn’t do panto this year. Last time I did it, I got a letter hand-delivered to the theatre that was very off-putting.”
“I actually kept it. I don’t know why. So I’m going to take some time off and just get myself together for the new year,” she added.
Last month, Shirley revealed she sought medical help for “low mood and anxiety” because of “cruel” trolls.
She told OK! Magazine: “It took its emotional toll, that’s why I’m not going to do panto.”
“[I’m] emotional and low and I’m not going to lie to you, it did affect me this year for sure… When it gets personal, that’s cruel.”
“It makes you [go]… ‘Do I look right? Am I too heavy? Am I this? Am I that? Cover up your bingo arms. Should I wear a dress with sleeves?'”
