Shirley Ballas’ former fiancé, Danny Taylor, has expressed gratitude towards his new partner for her support after their breakup. The 64-year-old ballroom dancer had been in a relationship with Danny, aged 52, for six years before they parted ways.
Confirming their separation last year, Shirley acknowledged the love and backing she received from her mother Audrey and son Mark Ballas. Shirley and Danny, who was 13 years younger, met during a pantomime production and were together for six years, even getting engaged before their relationship hit a rough patch.
Danny disappeared for a period, causing Shirley to end their romance upon his return. He has now praised his new partner, Rachel Jones, aged 40, for standing by him during challenging times. Danny publicly celebrated Rachel’s birthday, describing her as a supportive and caring individual who helped him through difficult moments.
Their relationship began seven months after Danny’s disappearance, which left Shirley devastated on her 64th birthday. Shirley, who had a traumatic past involving her late brother, made frantic efforts to locate Danny before he resurfaced the next day, leading to her decision to cut ties with him.
Despite still caring for him, Shirley realized the relationship had become too challenging, prompting their separation. Before Danny, Shirley had been engaged to Nigel Tiffany at 16, married Sammy Stopford at 18, and later wed Corky Ballas in 1985, with whom she had a son before their split in 2007.