Strictly Come Dancing Star Shirley Ballas Shared an Unrecognizable Throwback Photo

Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas surprised fans on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, by sharing a vintage photograph of herself as a teenager.

The 65-year-old dance legend posted the image on social media, challenging her followers to identify the young girl in the swimsuit.

In the black-and-white picture, a young Shirley Ballas poses confidently during her early days as a competitive dancer, looking vastly different from the glamorous judge viewers see every Saturday night on BBC One.

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Shirley Ballas used the post to reflect on her journey from a young girl in Wallasey to the "Queen of Latin."

She noted that the photo captured a time when she was just starting to dream of a professional career in the ballroom world.

Fans quickly flooded the comment section with praise, with many remarking that they could still see the determination in her eyes that eventually led her to win multiple world championships.

The throwback comes as Shirley Ballas prepares for the upcoming season of Strictly Come Dancing.

Known for her technical expertise and constructive criticism, she has served as the head judge since 2017.

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Beyond the television studio, she remains an active advocate for dance education and mental health awareness within the performing arts community.

She often shares nostalgic memories to inspire young dancers who are currently facing the same pressures she experienced during her youth.

In addition to her judging role, Shirley Ballas has recently ventured into writing, with a successful series of "cozy crime" novels set in the world of professional dance.

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Her willingness to share personal and vulnerable moments from her past has made her a favorite among the Strictly audience.

As the show continues to evolve, Shirley Ballas remains a central figure, bridging the gap between traditional ballroom standards and modern television entertainment.