Shirley Ballas has apologised for advocating that women carry Tasers for self-defense.
The Strictly Come Dancing judge, 63, joined the programme in 2017 and previously revealed that she ‘travelled everywhere with care’ because of her celebrity.
However, statements she made this week promoting a specific approach for women to feel safer were removed when she was advised it was prohibited.
During an appearance on BBC Radio 4’s Women’s Hour, Shirley said: ‘All women in today’s society should become more vigilant. It’s important that people take care of themselves, maybe carry Tasers, things like that.
‘My message goes out to all women, not just women in profile it’s taking care of yourself, it’s educating yourself.
‘What can you do if you were in a situation that happened to take hold of you, that you had no idea what to do.’
‘We must say that stun guns or tasers are forbidden weapons and possessing them is a crime,’ host Krupa Padhy said.
Shirley later apologised, saying she didn’t realise Tasers, which shock individuals with a 50,000 volt charge, were prohibited in the UK.
‘I do not encourage violence in any way shape or form,’ she continued.
‘I wanted to get the message across that women should feel empowered to protect themselves, and incorrectly mentioned the use of Tasers.’
During the conversation, the dancing show judge revealed that she had enrolled in self-defense lessons.
Shirley highlighted last week how she was no longer as ‘free as a bird’ as she once was.
‘I’m always a little bit cautious about where I’m going, especially if I’m out on my own,’ she told Daily Star.
‘I would be wrong to say, “I don’t worry about it.” Of course you do. These are the times that we live in and I think it’s very sad.’
Shirley has also previously spoken of feeling terrified to leave her house owing to death threats being made to her on social media, including ones where people posted pictures of her ‘in a coffin’.
Strictly Come Dancing continues today at 6.30pm on BBC One.
