Shirley Ballas has revealed she has started taking extra security precautions following the arrest of a man who allegedly planned to kidnap Holly Willoughby.
The Strictly Come Dancing head judge admitted she now “travels everywhere with caution” after Gavin Plumb, 36, of Potters Field in Harlow, appeared in the dock at Chelmsford magistrates court last Friday accused of “soliciting to commit murder and incitement to commit kidnap”.
Plumb, a father-of-two, is accused of plotting online with a man in the United States of America, on October 3 and 4, to commit crimes against the TV star.
It’s said the daytime star found out about the plot shortly before going on live TV last week, and will reportedly remain off air for as long as she needs.
Weighing in on Willoughby’s ordeal, Ballas, 63, shared her own fears after receiving death threats online over contestants she sent home from Strictly.
Ballas told Daily Star: “The news about Holly has made me a little bit nervous. Let’s just say, I travel everywhere with caution.
“I’m not free as a bird like I used to be. I’m always a little bit cautious about where I’m going, especially if I’m out on my own.
“I would be wrong to say, ‘I don’t worry about’ Of course, you do. These are the times that we live in, and I think it’s very sad.”
Last year, Ballas spoke about concerns for her safety in the ITVX documentary, Olivia Attwood vs The Trolls, which made her consider quitting Strictly and left her frightened to leave her home.
She told the Love Island star: “It’s when it is personal about myself, and my family and it affects my mental health. I am not just talking about your phone.
“I am talking about being in public. You worry about those same strange people that write these kinds of messages.
“Are they lurking in dark corners? Are they hiding behind walls when you go somewhere?”
Willoughby is yet to speak publicly about her ordeal.
