New Strictly ‘fix’ row as Shirley Ballas revealed to have ‘genuine soft spot’ for celeb who she’s ‘like a second mum to’

A ROW about favouritism has broken out after it emerged that contestant Dani Dyer and head judge Shirley Ballas are very close. The pair climbed Mount Kilimanjaro together in 2019 to raise money for Comic Relief. A row has emerged over Strictly Come Dancing’ judge Shirley Ballas close relationship with contestant Dani Dyer Credit: PA The pair climbed Mount Kilimanjaro together in 2019 to raise money for Comic Relief Credit: Getty – Contributor They were joined on the gruelling eight-day trek by several other celebrities including Ed Balls and Dan Walker. A source said: “Shirley and Dani have been through a tough experience together, which bonded them for life. Sign up for the TV newsletter Thank you! “Shirley was like a second mother to Dani during that trip and they spent quality time together. “Some pro dancers are worried that Shirley will favour Dani and be less tough on her because of their shared history. Former Love Island star Dani is excited to finally appear on Strictly after pulling out with an injury last year Credit: BBC Shirley was described as ‘like a second mother’ to Dani during their charity hike Credit: Getty “Of course, Shirley is a professional but it is hard to be objective when you have a genuine soft spot for someone.” A source added: “Shirley also did the hike with Dan Walker and was able to objectively judge him, even voting him out in the Dance off.” Dani was set to take part in last year’s series with Nikita Kuzmin, but was forced to pull out days before the first live show when she broke her ankle. At the time she said: “To say I’m heartbroken is the biggest understatement. Most read in TV “I am so going to miss dancing with Nikita but will be watching closely and cheering all the couples on.” Comment now