Shirley Ballas is currently single, based on her most recent public statements, and has confirmed that she is not in a long-term relationship at this stage of her life. Best known as the head judge on Strictly Come Dancing, Shirley Ballas has had a high-profile romantic past that includes two marriages, several long-term relationships, and periods of intentional independence. This article provides a complete, factual breakdown of Shirley Ballas’ partners, her marriages, her dating history, and how her personal life has evolved alongside her career.
Readers will learn who Shirley Ballas has been married to, who she has dated publicly, when those relationships took place, and why they ended. The article also explores how her demanding international dance career shaped her personal relationships, how she speaks about love today, and what she has said about future partnerships. With a clear, scannable structure and direct answers, this guide is designed to satisfy search intent and featured snippets while remaining accurate, readable, and comprehensive.
Shirley Ballas Relationship Status
Shirley Ballas has stated publicly that she is single and focusing on her career, health, and personal fulfilment. As of 2024 and continuing into 2025, she has not confirmed any current romantic partner. She has spoken openly about choosing peace, independence, and stability after years of emotionally demanding relationships.
She has also emphasised that being single is a conscious choice rather than a result of circumstance. Ballas frequently mentions that she values companionship but will not compromise her well-being or lifestyle to maintain a relationship.
Shirley Ballas Marriages
Shirley Ballas has been married twice, both relationships playing a significant role in her personal and professional life.
Marriage to Corky Ballas
Shirley Ballas married fellow ballroom dancer Corky Ballas in 1985. The couple met through competitive dancing and quickly became one of the most respected partnerships in the ballroom world. Their marriage lasted more than two decades and produced one child, Mark Ballas, born in 1986.
During their marriage, Shirley and Corky worked extensively across Europe, Asia, and the United States. Their relationship combined personal and professional lives, which Shirley later described as both rewarding and challenging. The marriage ended in divorce in 2007, with both parties continuing to co-parent their son successfully.
Marriage to Mark Alexander
In 2017, Shirley Ballas married actor and performer Mark Alexander. Their relationship attracted media attention due to their age difference and whirlwind romance. They married after a relatively short courtship, and Shirley appeared optimistic about a fresh start.
The marriage was short-lived, ending in separation in 2018 and divorce shortly thereafter. Shirley later described the relationship as emotionally difficult and acknowledged that the marriage did not provide the stability she had hoped for at that stage in her life.
Shirley Ballas Long-Term Partners
Beyond her marriages, Shirley Ballas has had several long-term relationships that were publicly acknowledged.
Relationship With Daniel Taylor
One of Shirley Ballas’ most discussed relationships was with actor Daniel Taylor. The couple were first linked publicly in 2019 and appeared together at several events. Their relationship lasted several years and was described by Shirley as meaningful and supportive.
By 2022–2023, Shirley confirmed that the relationship had ended. She explained that their separation was amicable and rooted in differing life priorities rather than conflict. This relationship marked one of her most emotionally open periods in the public eye.
Shirley Ballas Dating History Timeline
Shirley Ballas’ dating history reflects the demands of an international dance career and later a high-profile television role.
In the 1980s and 1990s, her romantic life was closely tied to competitive ballroom dancing. In the 2000s, she focused heavily on teaching, adjudicating, and mentoring. After joining Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, her relationships became subject to increased media scrutiny.
Each phase of her life shows a shift in priorities, from career-building to companionship to self-preservation and balance.
How Dance Shaped Her Relationships
Professional ballroom dancing is physically intense and emotionally demanding. Shirley Ballas has explained that constant travel, training schedules, and performance pressure placed strain on her relationships.
She has spoken candidly about how dedicating herself to dance often meant sacrificing personal time. While this discipline led to global recognition, it also limited her ability to maintain conventional relationship routines.
Public Scrutiny and Media Attention
Since joining Strictly Come Dancing, Shirley Ballas’ personal life has been widely discussed in tabloids and online media. She has addressed speculation directly, stating that public attention can distort reality and place unnecessary pressure on private relationships.
She has also expressed frustration with assumptions that single women of a certain age must be actively seeking partners, pushing back against outdated narratives.
Shirley Ballas on Love and Independence
In interviews, Shirley Ballas often describes love as something that should enhance life rather than complicate it. She has said she would welcome a partner who respects her independence, career, and emotional boundaries.
She has also been clear that she does not feel incomplete without a romantic relationship. Her focus on self-worth and autonomy has resonated with many viewers.
Relationship With Her Son
Although not romantic, Shirley Ballas’ relationship with her son Mark Ballas is central to her personal life. She has described motherhood as one of her greatest achievements.
Her role as a parent influenced many of her relationship decisions, particularly during Mark’s early career when she prioritised stability and support.
Rumours and Misconceptions
Over the years, Shirley Ballas has been linked romantically to various colleagues through speculation rather than evidence. She has repeatedly denied rumours involving Strictly Come Dancing professionals.
She has stated clearly that professional boundaries are important to her and that many rumours are based on friendly interactions rather than romantic involvement.
Why Shirley Ballas Is Single
Shirley Ballas has explained that she is single by choice, not circumstance. She prioritises emotional safety, mental health, and lifestyle compatibility over companionship for its own sake.
She has also acknowledged that her standards have changed with age and experience, making her more selective about who she allows into her life.
Views on Dating Later in Life
Shirley Ballas is vocal about challenging stereotypes around dating in midlife and beyond. She encourages honest conversations about companionship, independence, and self-respect.
She has said that later-life relationships should be built on mutual respect rather than obligation or fear of being alone.
Future Relationship Possibilities
While Shirley Ballas is not actively seeking a partner, she has not ruled out future relationships. She has said that love can arrive unexpectedly and that she remains open, but cautious.
Any future partner, she has stated, would need to integrate into her established life rather than attempt to reshape it.
Practical Information
Although Shirley Ballas is a public figure rather than a venue, the following practical details are commonly searched:
Opening hours/dates: Not applicable. Shirley Ballas appears at scheduled television recordings, live tours, and public events announced in advance.
Prices/costs: Appearance fees and event ticket prices vary depending on the organiser and location.
How to get there: Event locations are published with individual appearances, typically across the UK and internationally.
What to expect: Public appearances usually involve judging panels, interviews, book signings, or live dance events.
Tips for visitors: Check official announcements, arrive early for live recordings, and follow event-specific guidelines.
Shirley Ballas in Recent Years
In recent years, Shirley Ballas has focused on health, personal growth, and professional stability. She has spoken openly about grief, resilience, and self-discovery.
These experiences have influenced how she approaches relationships, placing emotional maturity and kindness at the forefront.
Cultural Impact of Her Honesty
Shirley Ballas’ openness about relationships, divorce, and independence has contributed to broader conversations about modern partnerships.
Her willingness to discuss mistakes and lessons learned has earned respect beyond the dance world.
FAQs
Who is Shirley Ballas’ current partner?
Shirley Ballas does not currently have a confirmed partner and has stated she is single.
Was Shirley Ballas married?
Yes, Shirley Ballas has been married twice, to Corky Ballas and later to Mark Alexander.
Who was Shirley Ballas married to first?
Her first husband was Corky Ballas, a professional ballroom dancer.
Does Shirley Ballas have children?
Yes, she has one son, Mark Ballas.
Did Shirley Ballas date Daniel Taylor?
Yes, she was in a long-term relationship with actor Daniel Taylor, which ended amicably.
Why did Shirley Ballas divorce Mark Alexander?
Shirley has stated the marriage was emotionally challenging and not the right fit long-term.
Is Shirley Ballas dating anyone now?
No current relationship has been confirmed.
Has Shirley Ballas dated anyone from Strictly?
She has denied romantic involvement with colleagues from Strictly Come Dancing.
Does Shirley Ballas want to remarry?
She has not expressed a desire to remarry and prioritises emotional well-being.
How old was Shirley Ballas when she last married?
She was in her late 50s when she married Mark Alexander in 2017.
Does Shirley Ballas talk openly about her love life?
Yes, she frequently addresses her experiences in interviews.
What does Shirley Ballas look for in a partner?
She values respect, independence, emotional maturity, and kindness.
Is Shirley Ballas happy being single?
She has stated clearly that she is content and fulfilled while single.
Has fame affected her relationships?
Yes, she has acknowledged that public scrutiny adds pressure to personal relationships.
Could Shirley Ballas have a partner in the future?
She remains open to the possibility but is not actively seeking one.
Final Thoughts
Shirley Ballas’ partner history reflects a life shaped by ambition, resilience, and personal growth. From long-term marriages to meaningful relationships and intentional singlehood, her journey offers a realistic portrait of love evolving over time.
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