Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas has admitted having "anxiety" as she issued a thank you to fans for their support.
The head judge from Wallasey has had some good news, after saying she felt "crushed" earlier this week after finding out she won't be able to see her son this Christmas.
The 60-year-old has been named Strictly's 'most popular judge', according to data from Casino Guide - which looked at each judge's Instagram following from the start of series 19 in September, to now.
READ MORE: Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas issues 'heartbreaking' family announcement
Shirley, also known as "The Queen of Latin", had the highest increase of any judge over the course of the series.
Writing a heartfelt post on her Instagram page, she said: "This is all down to you all for following me and supporting me. Thank you all so much for sharing things with friends and family and always being there for me.
"I appreciate you all."
Shirley said she has had thousands of messages since sharing her sad Christmas news on Monday.
She continued: "Some heart breaking stories of missing loved ones. A time in our country of uncertainty can we see them?
"Can’t we see them? Can we go out, can’t we go out? So I too like you feel your anxiety.
"But together we can get through it. Sending hugs to all of you and a huge thank you for all your messages. #fans #friends #thankyou #gratitude"
A number of her followers seemed to agree with Casino Guide's findings.
strictlycorriedale___lover93 said: "Oh Shirley I just love you to bits Shirley and I send lots of hugs back"
sheila.morse.39 said: "Best judge ever" with three clapping emojis.
kelly.gower said: "Very true, you are the best lovely".
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