‘Life wasn't WORTH LIVING'
WOMAN - UK|November 23, 2020
Strictly judge Shirley Ballas says she hit rock bottom when her mum was diagnosed with cancer
ROBYN MORRIS
‘Life wasn't WORTH LIVING'
On the surface, Shirley Ballas appears to have it all: one of the best jobs in showbiz, a loving partner and a killer figure.

But, behind the glitz and glamour, there was a time not too long ago when Shirley felt life wasn’t worth living anymore. After discovering her beloved mum Audrey had been diagnosed with cancer back in 2018 – a year after Shirley joined Strictly – the star, 60, has admitted that, despite her rising stardom and success, she wanted to ‘die with her’.

But meeting her boyfriend, 46-year-old West End actor Danny Taylor, later that year changed everything.

‘He’s a hands-on boyfriend, and I’ve never experienced that before,’ she’s said.

So just how did Shirley overcome her darkest days?

A HEARTBREAKING ADMISSION

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM WOMAN - UKView all
The dark side to your CHRISTMAS NIGHT OUT
WOMAN - UK

The dark side to your CHRISTMAS NIGHT OUT

Do you know what’s in your glass this party season?

time-read
4 mins  |
December 02, 2024
IS THERE ANYTHING MORE NOSTALGIC THAN CHRISTMASES PAST?
WOMAN - UK

IS THERE ANYTHING MORE NOSTALGIC THAN CHRISTMASES PAST?

Do you remember the anticipation before the big day, pondering endlessly about what should go on your Christmas list? I would lovingly write two or three things down, pop it into an envelope and leave it by the fireplace to be wafted up the chimney like something out of Mary Poppins.

time-read
1 min  |
December 02, 2024
The Christmas that CHANGED OUR LIVES
WOMAN - UK

The Christmas that CHANGED OUR LIVES

We speak to three women about their most wonderful time of year

time-read
4 mins  |
December 02, 2024
Fix a festive FALL-OUT
WOMAN - UK

Fix a festive FALL-OUT

Had too much of a good thing? Our expert tips will help you feel better quickly

time-read
3 mins  |
December 02, 2024
Reunited for CHRISTMAS
WOMAN - UK

Reunited for CHRISTMAS

After his rocky TV comeback, ts Philrelying on wife Steph this holiday season?

time-read
2 mins  |
December 02, 2024
'I don't want a THREE DAY HANGOVER'
WOMAN - UK

'I don't want a THREE DAY HANGOVER'

Lorraine Kelly on how she’ll be spending her first Christmas as a grandma

time-read
3 mins  |
December 02, 2024
Mistletoe AND WINE
WOMAN - UK

Mistletoe AND WINE

All Rose wanted was a little extra sparkle at Christmas

time-read
7 mins  |
December 02, 2024
Would you spend more ON THE DOG THAN ON YOUR HUSBAND?
WOMAN - UK

Would you spend more ON THE DOG THAN ON YOUR HUSBAND?

Brits are happy to fork out more on their pets’ gifts than on their other half’s, according to a study. We investigate….

time-read
3 mins  |
December 02, 2024
A new ACT OF BETRAYAL
WOMAN - UK

A new ACT OF BETRAYAL

King Charles misses Harry 'desperately' but has the trust gone, writes Emily Andrews

time-read
3 mins  |
December 02, 2024
PRINCE ANDREW AND FERGIE ARE EXPECTED FOR CHRISTMAS!
WOMAN - UK

PRINCE ANDREW AND FERGIE ARE EXPECTED FOR CHRISTMAS!

After a tough year for William and Kate, the Waleses are looking forward to Christmas and catching up with the Royal Family – including, it seems, Prince Andrew and Sarah, Duchess of York.

time-read
1 min  |
December 02, 2024