Shayne Ward was visibly moved as he discussed his mothers health challenges during his latest appearance on Strictly Come Dancing.
The artist turned 40 this week and marked the occasion with an emotionally-charged American Smooth to Sam Smith’s “Get Here”, alongside his professional partner Nancy Xu. His rehearsal sessions were made even more special with his mum visiting him.
Post-performance, while speaking with Claudia Winkleman, Ward couldn’t contain his emotions as he dedicated his dance to his mother, who has long been battling ill health and hasn’t been able to attend the live shows.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude for her support saying: “My mum is my absolute world but unfortunately she’s not been able to come to the live shows because she’s not been in the best of health for many years but I know she’s at home watching.
“So mum, I dedicate this song to you because I know you always try and get there. I love you.”
Ward, who has previously been candid about his family’s health ordeals, shared in 2015 that his mother was recuperating following a second stroke within a short period of six weeks.
At the time, he commented on her recovery, noting: “Mum is back at home now trying to get her strength back.
“More than anything she just wanted to get home from hospital. I went to see her just before I flew to Spain this week and she’s alright at the minute. She is relaxing as much as possible and just trying to get the strength back in her legs.”
Shayne, known for his role as Aidan Connor on Coronation Street, has always been vocal about the unwavering support from his mother, reports the Mirror.
“Even though my mum’s gone through what she’s gone through and even though we’re rallying around as a family and want to know she’s OK – she just keeps telling us she wants us to focus on our work and be happy.”
“She’s even making sure that I’ve gone through my lines. She hasn’t been on set yet but I know she’d love that as she’s such a big fan of the show so I’m bringing her in with me when she’s better,” he shared with the Sunday Mirror.
Strictly Come Dancing airs Saturdays and Sundays on BBC One