Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood has revealed that he and the late Len Goodman initially believed the BBC show would not survive beyond its first few weeks. In a new interview with Radio Times, the 61-year-old said both he and Goodman predicted the programme would be off air after just three weeks.
"Len Goodman, bless him, and rest his soul, and I both said together, 'We give it three weeks'. We thought it would be off air after that. But it won the hearts and minds of the nation," Craig told the Radio Times.
The Saturday night dancing series has been one of the BBC's most prized programmes since its debut in 2004, with Sir Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly originally hosting.
New Presenting Line-Up
The show recently underwent a major presenting overhaul following the exits of both Tess and Claudia Winkleman, who had stepped in for Sir Bruce. Viewers have had a somewhat divided response to the fresh line-up of Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe.
Craig, who has remained a constant fixture on the judging panel since day one, also weighed in on the revamped presenting team, saying: "I'm really loving this new series of Strictly, and I love the new hosts. I think they provide an extra oomph of energy."
He added: "Josh is very funny, and Emma is the ultimate professional. And it's great that we've got JoJo upstairs, who can demonstrate a bit of dancing as well. He's the first host we've ever had who's an accomplished dancer."
Halloween Twist and Injury Absence
This series also introduced a twist during the Halloween special when the dance-off featured three couples instead of the usual two, with judges required to choose who to eliminate rather than save. The Emmerdale star and his partner Jowita Przytal were axed following their Tango to Ghostbusters.
"It was a very different atmosphere judging to send someone home, rather than save them. But when you're judging to send someone home, it adds tension. And I liked it!" admitted Craig.
Ahead of the next live show on Saturday, November 14, viewers are questioning whether Jaime Winstone and her partner Carlos Gu will make their return. The duo were absent last week while Jaime, 41, recuperated from a torn abdominal muscle, though no further updates have emerged regarding her availability for this weekend's show.
A BBC statement previously read: "Due to injury, Jaime Winstone has been advised by doctors to rest and, as a result, she will not dance in this weekend's Strictly Come Dancing. In line with the rules of the show, Jaime and Carlos will receive a bye through to next week when it is hoped they will be able to dance again. We wish Jaime the very best as she continues her recovery."
Jaime added: "I am absolutely devastated not to be dancing this weekend due to a torn abdominal muscle. I am in considerable pain, and my doctors have advised complete rest to give my body the best possible chance to heal."
