A 37-year-old man, Kyle Shaw, has been charged with stalking renowned Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas. The six-year campaign of harassment, which caused Ballas "serious distress," culminated in his arrest and court appearance.

Shaw, who appeared at South Sefton magistrates' court in Bootle, Merseyside, faces charges of stalking and possessing cannabis. The stalking charge stems from an alleged pattern of online messaging that significantly disrupted Ballas' daily life between 2017 and 2023.

The court heard that Shaw's actions "pursued a course of conduct... which amounted to stalking causing Shirley Ballas serious alarm or distress." He entered no pleas, and his address was listed as a YMCA in the region. Furthermore, a court order prohibits him from entering London and contacting or approaching Ballas in any way, including via social media.

This development follows a prior incident where Ballas reported a man taking pictures of her home and car, along with an alleged confrontation. While the details of the separate investigation remain unclear, police confiscated the suspect's phone and computer. Ballas herself commented on the increased need for vigilance, stating that she now feels compelled to heighten her security precautions.

Acknowledging the support she received from the BBC, Ballas expressed gratitude for their "fantastic" duty of care, particularly during incidents where she felt vulnerable while away from her usual support systems.

Timeline of Events & Relevant Details

    1. Kyle Shaw, 37, charged with stalking Shirley Ballas.
    1. Alleged stalking campaign spanned six years (2017-2023).
    1. Charges include stalking and possessing cannabis.
    1. Shaw entered no pleas at South Sefton magistrates' court.
    1. Court order prohibits him from entering London and contacting Ballas.
    1. Prior incident involved a man taking photos of Ballas' home and car.