Strictly Judge Choked Before Live Show

Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas narrowly avoided a serious incident before the show's Blackpool special, having choked on a fish bone. The 65-year-old revealed that the bone became lodged in her throat, causing her to be unable to breathe for a distressing 20-minute period. This frightening event occurred just moments before she was due to appear on air.

Fortunately, Ballas's make-up artist, Jane Burstow, was on hand to provide life-saving assistance. Burstow immediately performed the Heimlich manoeuvre on the panicked head judge, successfully dislodging the obstruction. Ballas expressed profound gratitude, stating that she feared it was 'the end' and acknowledging that the show would have been 'a judge down' without Burstow's intervention.

Following the ordeal, Ballas, though a bit hoarse, confirmed she was recovering well. The experience has prompted her to consider learning the Heimlich manoeuvre herself to be prepared for future emergencies. This incident occurred amidst discussions about the show's future resilience following recent scandals, with Ballas maintaining a confident outlook on Strictly's longevity.