Shirley Ballas revealed all about becoming her grandmother, her new book and her beauty secrets, when speaking at Good Housekeeping Live, in partnership with Dyson, on Friday (11 November).
Speaking to Good Housekeeping's Deputy Editor, Emma Justice before a live audience, Shirley said, "My son and his wife have been trying for a baby. Last year they lost a baby so this will be a rainbow baby."
When asked about her aspirations around being a grandmother, Shirley said, "I hope I'm a better grandmother than I was a mother. I was a good mother, but I had my career." Shirley said she wished she could have spent more time with her family when she first became a mother, but was excited to make the most of her new grandchild.
The new baby will be born in LA, where Shirley's son and daughter-in-law live. "I shall be flying over as soon as I'm invited!" she said.
During the talk, the Strictly judge also discussed her new book, which is a murder mystery novel. She explained that the book is based on much of her own experiences in the dance world.
"It's a bit saucy!" she said. "Sex, lies, intrigue, manipulation, bullying and ballroom dancing, that's what I've seen in 55 years."
Shirley added that she wanted to keep readers guessing as to what was real and what was fiction, particularly as the lead character, Lily, is based on herself.
"Did I take part in it? Did I witness it? Or is it fiction?" she said.
Recalling her earlier years in the dance industry, Shirley explained that it was a tough and competitive environment and that there was a lot of criticism around body image. Being on Strictly, she admitted that she still receives messages today through social media criticising her appearance, but says she's learnt to be resilient.
Shirley added she feels lucky to be with her partner, Danny, who is so supportive of her. "He says, 'You can wear your big knickers, I still love you!'" she told the audience, laughing.
Shirley also revealed which beauty treatments she relies on today to keep her looking fabulous.
"I do take care of my skin. I've had the vampire face treatment, I do all the masks," she said. "I'm not opposed to a face lift!"
