Overview
- Ballas will spend Christmas in Britain with her mother, Audrey, who has COPD and can no longer travel.
- With her son Mark and two-year-old grandson based in the United States, she says a full family gathering is not possible this year.
- She plans a short post-Christmas trip to California, fitting in teaching alongside family time before the UK Dance Championships and the Strictly tour.
- Entering her ninth year, she says she intends to remain head judge on Strictly if invited, as long-time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman leave after this series.
- As an RSPCA ambassador, she is promoting an Omaze draw for a £4.5 million Lake District house plus £250,000, with entries open until 26 December.