BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Shayne Ward stuns fans with age as he addresses near-exit

Shayne Ward has taken fans by surprise as the revealed he's celebrating a very special birthday. The actor and singer is currently busy preparing for his next performance in the ballroom after making it through to week five of Strictly Come Dancing 2024. The BBC One dance contest's week four live show on Saturday night (October 12) was opened by singer Shayne and his dance partner Nancy Xu, as they scored a total of 30 for their cha cha to Ain’t No Love (Ain’t No Use) by Sub Sub feat.

Melanie Williams. Despite receiving one of their top scores of the series so far, the pair found themselves in the dreaded dance-off during Sunday's (October 13) results show alongside Nick Knowles and Luba Mushtuk but found themselves unanimously saved by the judges. READ MORE: BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Janette Manrara 'fights tears' as Aljaz Skorjanec also recognises change Appearing on the latest episode of Strictly spin-off It Takes Two on Tuesday (October 15), Shayne told host Fleur East that him being in the dance off proved the public vote "really does count".



He said: "I think a lot of people were saying 'well, you were middle of the table' and I remember Claudia [Winkleman] saying, actually it was in the judges briefing, you know, 'maybe people thought he was he was just safe because he was in the middle of the table', so maybe they didn't pick up the phone. "Who knows, to be honest? I mean, for me, it was a strange feeling, but then I felt quite calm, because I thought, I've got another opportunity here." Shayne and Nancy then revealed he would be dancing the American Smooth during the next life show on Saturday night (October 19) to 'Get Here' by Sam Smith.

But before he was able to leave the studio, Shayne was presented with a birthday cake as he celebrates his 40th birthday on Wednesday (October 16). Shayne with his two children - Willow and Reign - as he celebrates his 40th birthday (Image: Shayne Ward Instagram) On his birthday eve, the former Coronation Street star took to Instagram to chat with his fans and followers at home to mark the last evening of his 30s. And the comments quickly came flooding in.

Among the first to respond was vocal coach Yvie Burnett who worked on The X Factor, which Shayne won in 2005. She said: "Oh my goodness I’m sure I celebrated your 21st with you !! Bloody hell. Happy birthday.

" @susanclarkson34 commented: "Wow Happy Bday Shayne. The big 40. You look about 20.

Have a great day." @joycewest2010 commented: "Happy birthday, you don’t look 40, you’re doing great in Strictly you’ve came far since the X Factor . Keep dancing you’re doing brilliant.

" @shazd76 wrote: "What!! You're not even 30!" @djcox007 replied: "Coming up to the last night of my 40s mate! Cheers buddy, welcome to your 40s!" @normathestormer added: "Happy birthday!! Still just a spring chicken! 40 is a great age to be .. enjoy and celebrate.

You’re fab on Strictly ! Onwards and upwards.".