Shirley Ballas ‘snaps’ back at Strictly audience
Shirley Ballas has come under fire as Strictly Come Dancing fans have accused her of “downvoting” women on this year’s series.
It comes after the head judge of the BBC show was involved in a sexism row last year as viewers made the same claims in the 2022 series.
On Saturday night, fans noticed the 63-year-old scored Coronation Street star Ellie Leach a seven when the other three awarded her scores of eight, and likewise, Love Island star Zara McDermott was given a five by Shirley and sixes by the others.
Later, Angela Rippon achieved eights from the other three judges while Shirley downgraded with a seven.
Many viewers took to social media to accuse Shirley of being harsher on women in the competition.
READ MORE Strictly week 3 – Sexism storm, pro Karen bites back and Les voted out
Twitter user @AmyJoanne__ penned: “Of course. Another low score from Shirley for a woman. #Strictly.”
@_LucasMichael_ added: “Lmao never mind the young pretty woman, our Shirley will even score lower for the older woman. She’s consistent #Strictly.”
“Shirley is so bait, always downvoting young women #Strictly,” @MillieSansoye shared.
@cptnwilliamson commented: “Shirley’s dislike for young women is again so obvious #Strictly.”
Don’t miss…
Shirley Ballas in risque display as she strips to shirt for backstage video[VIDEO]
Strictly 2023’s first dance-off sees TV legend unanimously voted out[LATEST]
We’ll miss loveable Les but Shirley testy – Vanessa Feltz’s Strictly verdict[COLUMN ]
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
@BlazesAccount posted a GIF of the judge dancing and wrote: “Dance if you score young women lower for no reason Shirley: #Strictly #StrictlyComeDancing.”
“Here we go, Shirley with the harsh critique for the women. #StrictlyComeDancing #Strictly,” angrykilljoy1 remarked.
However, some defended Shirley, with @Andi000211 pointing out: “So, for all those who think Shirley favours men. That didn’t appear to be the case with Nigel [Harman].#StrictlyComeDancing.”
Last year, the judge saw a huge backlash as many claimed she was “sexist”.
She has since opened up about receiving a string of hateful comments online.
In August, the former dancer revealed she had even sought counselling over vile abuse she had been at the receiving end of.
While the judge has made a comeback to the show, she previously admitted the experience had led her to question whether or not she’d return to the series.
Express.co.uk has reached out to the BBC for comment.
Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday at 6.20pm on BBC One.
Source: Read Full Article