Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood has defended the BBC show’s new presenting lineup, saying he expects Emma Willis, Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe to remain in their roles when the programme returns next year.
The trio took over hosting duties this year in what was described as the show’s biggest shakeup to date. However, the new format has reportedly received a mixed response from viewers, prompting speculation that BBC executives could introduce further changes.
Last month, sources told the Daily Mail that producers were reviewing the programme’s format after senior figures called for it to become “slicker”.
Horwood, however, said he believed the new presenters had settled into their roles and did not see a reason to change the arrangement.
He told the Daily Mail that the three hosts had found their footing, comparing their adjustment to new members joining a family. He added that he was enjoying the current lineup and expected it to remain in place.
Strictly Judge Dismisses Social Media Criticism
Horwood also discussed the criticism he has received throughout his television career, saying negative comments and online trolling do not concern him.
The judge, who has become known for his direct assessments of celebrity performances, described much of the criticism on social media as personal opinion.
He questioned the qualifications of people who publish critical comments online, arguing that having access to a social media platform does not automatically make someone a journalist or writer.
Horwood said he generally ignores such remarks and does not allow them to affect him.
Judge Says His Television Persona Differs From Real Life
The choreographer also spoke about how people perceive him outside Strictly Come Dancing, explaining that his on-screen reputation does not necessarily reflect his personality away from the judging panel.
Known by the nickname “Mr Nasty” because of his blunt comments on the programme, Horwood said people are often surprised by his behaviour when they meet him.
He said some people expect him to be less friendly because they have mainly seen him sitting behind the judging desk.
Horwood explained that judging is part of his professional role and that he behaves differently once he has finished working.
Craig Horwood Renovates Historic Northamptonshire Mansion
Away from television, Horwood is overseeing extensive renovations to a 19th-century mansion in Northamptonshire that he purchased with his fiancé, Jonathan Myring, in 2021.
The seven-bedroom property is undergoing a major refurbishment, with the judge describing the project as stressful but saying he expects it to become their permanent home.
Horwood revealed that the couple had originally planned to marry three years ago but postponed their wedding after the renovation work took longer than anticipated.
He said they now hoped to have at least two rooms completed before Christmas so they could celebrate in the property.
Christmas Plans Include Local Village Residents
Horwood said he plans to host a Christmas gathering at the renovated home, inviting local villagers to join him and Myring for the celebrations.
His family members live in Australia, so he said he wanted to spend the holiday with friends from the local community.
The judge explained that he would have only Christmas Day off because of his pantomime commitments. He is due to travel from Bristol to Northamptonshire to spend the day at home.
Horwood Joins Fox’s Biscuits Christmas Campaign
Horwood recently took part in a Christmas lights event organised by Fox’s Biscuits on Grey Street in Stalybridge, Manchester.
He joined residents on Monday for the official switch-on, which illuminated homes along the street as part of a campaign focused on bringing communities together during the festive season.
The judge said the visit had personal significance because his three-times-great-grandfather was born in the area. He had never previously visited the location.
Horwood described the event as an opportunity for residents to socialise and reconnect, saying the campaign aimed to encourage people to communicate with their neighbours rather than remain focused on their phones.
Fox’s Biscuits is also offering one homeowner the opportunity to receive a Christmas makeover, transforming their property into a festive display ahead of the holiday. Details of the competition have been published on the company’s Facebook page.
