Shirley Ballas says she is “99% sure” that Strictly Come Dancing will return to TV later this year.
The head judge says the show will pay tribute to our brave NHS staff.
Shirley, 59, said: “I have spoken to Strictly’s executive producer, and I am 99% sure that we will be on screens in one form or another.
“When the colder months come, we need some glitz and glamour.
“It’s something that the whole family can enjoy.
"It’s imperative that the show goes ahead, so you can bet your trolley they are doing their best to get it on.
"And we are going to have some fantastic NHS stories.
“There is going to be a reflection on the coronavirus and what people have done for communities. I think it’s going to be a real tear-jerker.”
And Shirley – who decides contestants’ fate along with Bruno Tonioli, Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood – has been thinking about which celebs she would like on the show: “I have always wanted anyone from the Royal Family.
“But it doesn’t have to be someone that’s in the limelight because what I enjoy the most is getting to know someone’s journey.”
Shirley, who has been in lockdown with boyfriend Daniel Taylor, said: “I will never take another ballroom for granted again.
“I love to work but just as important is the time that you spend with your family.
"Danny and I have a very lovely relationship, but we were only used to spending a couple of nights together. It’s been educational.”
- See the full interview in Hello! magazine, out now
