Strictly Come Dancing 2017: Joanne Clifton declares NO ONE could replace Shirley Ballas
STRICTLY COME DANCING professional Joanne Clifton has spoken out about controversial judge Shirley Ballas, insisting that she’s the best replacement for previous head Len Goodman.
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The former Strictly star, who won with BBC Sport’s Ore Oduba last year, delivered the claim via her Radio Times column today, as she proceeded to gush about the competition’s semi-final at the weekend.
While she addressed her previously negative comments about the 57-year-old Queen of Latin, Joanne went on to praise the coach for her critique during the latest show.
“Shirley Ballas was really positive this week, too. I was like, ‘Yes!’” she confessed. “It’s better when the show opens with a bit of positivity.”
The 34-year-old then weighed in on the hotly debated reports of Shirley’s departure from the BBC series after only one season on the judging panel.
Strictly: Joanne Clifton has declared that no one could replace Shirley Ballas on the show
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And I don’t know who else could do it
Joanne said: “I really doubt Shirley will leave after this year. I hope not, anyway.
“I know I criticised her last week, but I do think she’s the perfect replacement for Len. She more than knows her stuff and she’s like a walking technique book.”
“And I don’t know who else could do it,” she added firmly.
Meanwhile, former judge Len, 73, has taken a swipe at the BBC for their apparent policing of his feedback during his time on the show.
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Speaking on BBC Breakfast, he confessed: “I started off full of double reverse spins and all that but then I was told, ‘Well, no-one knows what you’re talking about’.”
While his last role appeared to be a sore subject, Len assured he only felt good things about the series’ format changes since Shirley joined.
“They’re back in, good for them,” he insisted.
Strictly Come Dancing concludes Saturday at 6.30pm on BBC One.