Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke for Strictly Come Dancing 2026 / © BBC/Ray Burmiston/BBC Creative
Strictly Come Dancing producers reportedly fear that Motsi Mabuse and Shirley Ballas could quit the show after the end of the current series.
All four judges – Mabuse, Ballas, Anton Du Beke and Craig Revel Horwood – have contracts which expire at the end of 2026, meaning that new terms will need to be negotiated for them to return in 2027.
According to The Sun, Du Beke and Revel Horwood have indicated that they are keen to be back, but doubts persist over whether Mabuse and Ballas will sign new deals.
A source said: “Strictly love the current judging panel and are really keen to try and persuade everyone to come back next year.
“Contract negotiations won’t start until the current series is wrapped, but already Craig and Anton have made it clear they intend to return.
“Motsi and Shirley are yet to make up their minds. Shirley in particular could be a flight risk for bosses—especially if her guest appearance on Dancing With The Stars goes well.”
Ballas is due to make a guest appearance on tomorrow night’s horror-themed episode of Dancing With The Stars alongside former Strictly judge Bruno Tonioli.
