Ahead of this Saturday’s premiere of Strictly Come Dancing, Craig Revel Horwood, the show’s longest-standing judge, has unveiled a hidden role that changes the dynamic between judges and contestants.
During a discussion about standout moments from the previous season, Craig mentioned his experience coaching Chris McCausland for the final dance. This unique opportunity allowed judges to not only offer guidance but also learn from the contestants themselves.
Reflecting on the moment, Craig emphasized the challenges Chris faced throughout the series and how the experience enriched him with new insights. The memorable dance that stood out was Chris and Dianne’s performance to Instant Karma by John Lennon, which included a touching segment where the studio lights were turned off to simulate Chris’s perspective as a blind individual.
Other judges also praised Chris’s involvement in the show. Head judge Shirley Ballas described Chris and Dianne’s Waltz to You’ll Never Walk Alone as “simply phenomenal,” highlighting the emotional depth and exceptional partnership displayed in the performance.
Motsi Mabuse echoed similar sentiments, expressing how the performance gave her goosebumps and conveyed the true essence of Strictly Come Dancing through its storytelling and emotional connection.
Anton Du Beke, who transitioned from a professional dancer to a judge, commended Chris for his consistent excellence in every dance routine, emphasizing his fantastic performances throughout the season.
When asked about his return for another series, Craig, marking his 21st year on the show, expressed his ongoing excitement and delight at the fresh energy each new cast brings. He emphasized the uniqueness of each season and the thrill of working with incredible celebrities.
This season’s lineup features diverse celebrities, including Ellie Goldstein, the first contestant with Down Syndrome on Strictly, and La Voix, the first drag queen to compete in a full series. Additionally, Emmerdale’s Lewis Cope joined the cast as a last-minute replacement for Kristian Nairn from Game of Thrones.
Strictly Come Dancing will return to BBC 1 on September 20, promising another season of entertainment and exceptional performances.