Long-serving Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood has made a definitive statement about his future on the BBC juggernaut, as the show prepares to bid farewell to its iconic presenting duo.
No Plans to Depart the Dancefloor
Speaking on BBC Breakfast ahead of the 2025 series final, the choreographer, who has been on the judging panel since the show's inception in 2004, confirmed he has absolutely no intention of leaving. "I will be dragged out kicking and screaming from that position," he declared emphatically.
Revel Horwood described his role as his "lovely Saturday job," comparing it to a paper round and praising the "spectacular dancing" he gets to witness from the "best front seat in the world." He highlighted the show's global success, noting it airs in 63 countries and holds a Guinness World Record for the most produced format worldwide.
Emotional Goodbyes to 'Laurel and Hardy'
The judge expressed profound sadness at the impending exit of hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, who announced in October they would step down together at the series' end. Daly has hosted for 21 years, with Winkleman as co-host for 11 years.
"I'm super sad about that because I've worked with Tess since the very beginning - 21 years ago and it's hard to say goodbye," he said, wishing her luck for future "spectacular jobs."
He shared warm, personal memories of both women, revealing he will miss "Tess's end of year parties in her dressing room full of lovely thin-crust pizzas with pineapple" and the dresses Claudia would "sling" him for his drag bag. He affectionately called Winkleman "mad as a box of frogs" and praised their backstage camaraderie, labelling the pair "the Laurel and Hardy of Strictly."
The Baton Passes to New Presenters
Revel Horwood admitted he has "no clue" who will replace the beloved hosts, saying he "can't wait to find out next summer." The presenters themselves stated they wanted to "pass the baton" to new talent, calling their time on the show "an absolute dream."
As the current series concludes, Craig Revel Horwood's commitment ensures at least one familiar face will return to the judging panel, promising continuity for the millions of fans who tune in each week to the record-breaking dance competition.
