Strictly judge Shirley Ballas risks being axed from ballroom contest over relationship with dancer she is due to judge

From the Newshound archive · first published 4 October 2026.

Shirley Ballas is facing removal as a judge at the International Championships following complaints from the dance community about her relationship with Italian dancer Giuseppe Nonnis, 36, whom she is due to assess in the Professional Latin at the Royal Albert Hall. Giuseppe has been staying at Shirley's home during his UK visits, and he reportedly falls under rules that bar judges from scoring a partner or de facto spouse. She is also said to have given him high marks at the UK Open Dance Festival before the two became romantically involved.

The International Championships carry the reputation of being the "ballroom dance Olympics," which heightens concerns about any perceived conflict of interest.

Organisers are said to be aware of the complaints but have yet to take any action.

Giuseppe, raised in Cagliari and now based in Hong Kong, says he has looked up to Shirley since childhood.