Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas has shared an emotional tribute marking 21 years since the death of her beloved brother David.
The 64-year-old dancer, from Wallasey, took to Instagram on Thursday to share a series of photographs documenting precious memories with her late brother.
In the heartfelt post, Ballas expressed how she misses David “more and more everyday” since his passing in 2003.
The touching tribute included several family photos of the siblings together through the years, accompanied by a lengthy message reflecting on their close relationship and the impact of his loss.
David Rich took his own life in 2003 at the age of 44, following struggles with depression that Ballas has spoken openly about in the past.
The loss had a profound impact on the family, with the dancer previously describing it as “losing everything.”
Last year, the Strictly judge demonstrated her commitment to mental health awareness by completing a Skyathlon challenge – comprising a zipline, a 700ft wing walk and 15,000ft skydive – to raise money for suicide prevention.
Since her brother’s death, Ballas has become an ardent campaigner for mental health awareness, even establishing The Ballas Foundation with her son Mark, 38.
In her poignant Instagram message, Ballas wrote: “My mother and I talk about you every day. We reminisce all the memories we have with you. We laugh, we cry, we treasure the times we had.”
The Strictly judge shared how David had been central to her life, stating: “You were my brother, my protector, my teacher and my best friend all in one.”
She added: “I’ll never really know why you left us but I’d do anything to have you back by my side.”
In an emotional admission, Ballas reflected on David’s influence, saying: “I wouldn’t be the person I am if I hadn’t have had you as my brother David. I’m truly lucky to be able to call you my brother.”
In her tribute, Ballas shared an update about David’s children, noting how his daughter Mary “has grown into the most remarkable young lady.”
“She is strong, beautiful and she brings us so much joy,” the Strictly judge wrote of her niece.
She also mentioned her son Mark Ballas, who has recently become a father himself to a baby named Banksi.
The dance judge noted the striking family resemblance, sharing that Banksi “looks just like” his late uncle David.
David and Mark had shared a particularly close bond, as David had helped look after Mark while Shirley pursued dancing opportunities in the United States.
Ballas continues her work with mental health charities CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) and Suicide&Co, pledging to keep her brother “in the forefront” of her mind.
The Strictly judge received an outpouring of support from her colleagues following her emotional post.
Former Strictly contestant Dr Punam Krishan commented: “Sending lots of love to you and your family.”
Several Strictly stars including Dianne Buswell, Lauren Oakley and Amy Dowden showed their support with heart emojis.
Fans also rallied around the head judge, with messages of love and strength flooding the comments section.
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Shirley Ballas has paid a poignant tribute to her late brother
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Through her advocacy work, Ballas remains committed to supporting those struggling with mental health challenges.
For anyone struggling with mental health issues, CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) can be contacted in confidence on 0800 58 58 58.
Those who have lost loved ones to suicide can reach out to Suicide&Co’s counselling service on 0800 054 8400.
The Samaritans are also available 24 hours a day on 116 123 or at www.samaritans.org.
Shirley’s message emphasised the importance of reaching out, noting: “I truly believe if we knew then what we know now you’d still be here with me and Mum.”
Through her continued advocacy work, Ballas remains dedicated to raising awareness about mental health support and suicide prevention.