Strictly Come Dancing 2017: Shirley Ballas to QUIT show after awkward gaffe?
STRICTLY COME DANCING'S newest judge Shirley Ballas could be quitting the show after her latest error on Saturday night's live instalment.
Strictly's Shirley Ballas in awkward exchange with Jonnie Peacock
Since her addition to the BBC's stalwart reality series, Latin ballroom coach Shirley has been plagued by rumours of tension between her and the rest of the panel.
Saturday saw Len Goodman's replacement make another awkward mistake when she praised Paralympian contestant Jonnie Peacock for having a "spring in his step", despite being fully aware of his "blade".
As fans continue to speculate over Shirley, 57, and fellow judge Darcy Bussell, book-makers Paddy Power have revealed that the newest member of the team might not be back for another turn critiquing celebrities next year.
According to the odds, 3/1 say that Shirley won't be appearing for the first episode of the next series, with Darcy Bussell as a 5/1 to not return.
Strictly: Shirley Ballas is tipped to be leaving the show after this series
Strictly: Shirley has been the subject of a rumoured rift with Darcy Bussell
Strictly: The latin ballroom expert took over head judge Len Goodman's position
It seems it is only a matter of time until one of the judges waltzes off the show for good
A spokesman for company Paddy Power said: “Following the latest gaffe from Shirley Ballas, and there’s been quite a few, it seems it is only a matter of time until one of the judges waltzes off the show for good.
"The cha-cha-chances of it being either of the ladies are shortening.”
The dancer had been eager to praise when she told the sportsman on Saturday: "You bring a whole new meaning to putting a spring in your step. It was light, it was bright."
As the audience giggled, 24-year-old Jonnie interjected: “Excuse the pun!”
Strictly: Shirley made another awkward gaffe on Saturday night with Jonnie Peacock
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Turning to her fellow judges, Shirley gasped in regret: “I’ve said something wrong again, you know what I mean? But anyway…”
Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday at 6.35pm on BBC One.