Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas was emotional as she issued a "heartbreaking" family update.
The head judge from Wallasey is preparing for a stint in the Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs pantomime after the latest season of the popular dance contest finished last weekend.
She posted a video from her dressing room on Instagram where she said she felt "crushed" as new coronavirus restrictions mean she won't be able to travel to see her son Mark this Christmas.
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She said: "Missing my boy more than ever @markballas. As a mother I always took for granted I could fly to see him.
"Over the last two years , when told to lockdown it becomes so much more difficult to plan. Now with the new variant we are on high alert it seems again. So all travel for the foreseeable future for me is out.
Shirley continued: "Heart breaking because I kept the thought of seeing him in March so close to my heart and now it may not happen.
"I’m a little crushed today to say the least, always strong and upbeat for others but with the last few years we have all had and now the new variant it will take massive strength to overcome my feelings.
"But today I’ll go with the emotions and let them out, and hoping for all my friends out there you will soon be reunited with your loved ones at home and abroad."
Shirley posted a photo of her hugging her son and said she wouldn't take precious family moments such as this for granted again.
She added: "I’ve posted a pic of Mark and I - and a hug I took for granted. Holding on tight for the next one. Sending love to all today and I’ll be gathering strength from you xxx."
Former Strictly Judge Arlene Phillips sent a message of support after the heartfelt update.
She said: "Oh I understand how hard it must be not to reach out and hug your beautiful talented boy. I was shocked and tearful when doing @imacelebrity as to how much I missed my daughters. Their hugs are everything to me. Thinking of you and sending a virtual hug"
Fans also flooded the comments to offer supportive messages to Shirley.
Jackie said: "I’m so sorry to hear this, Shirley. Keeping you and Mark and BC in my thoughts. Sending you love."
Debra added: "Sending hugs it’s so hard"
Pam commented : "Sending hugs Shirley....I know exactly what you're going through but better times will come"
Jayne posted: "Keep strong Shirley"
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