He's the Strictly Come Dancing judge known for his razor-sharp critiques, but Craig Revel Horwood insists his 'Mr Nasty' persona is a complete misunderstanding. The TV star, who has become a fixture on the BBC show, claims he is simply telling the truth and finds his villainous reputation rather amusing.
From 'Mr Naaaarsty' to National Treasure
Craig Revel Horwood has revealed that his straightforward approach to judging celebrities on Strictly Come Dancing led to his infamous nickname. "By telling the truth that some of the celebrities were awful, people decided I was Mr Naaaarsty," he explains. "I found that - and still find it - quite funny." The judge will be in his element this Saturday when the show broadcasts live from the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom, featuring performances from remaining couples, a special routine by Steps, and a group dance from four returning finalists.
A Life in Performance: From Moulin Rouge to Strictly
Horwood's career began unexpectedly in Australia, where he discovered ballet as a "porky little kid" after his PE teacher suggested he run laps. He fell in love with jazz ballet and began comprehensive training in various dance forms. His first professional job at 17 in West Side Story opened doors to international stages, though his time at Paris's legendary Moulin Rouge was cut short on his first night due to a disagreement about duets. Despite this setback, he found success in London's West End, simultaneously performing in Cats and Miss Saigon.
Reflecting on joining Strictly Come Dancing in 2004, Horwood admits he initially thought the concept would fail. "I said 'it sounds terrible. It sounds like car crash television. I'm not interested in it,'" he recalls. Despite his reservations, the BBC invited him for a screen test, and the show has since become a global phenomenon broadcast in 63 countries.
Embracing the Villain On and Off Stage
Horwood's new book, Revelations: Songs Boys Don't Sing, celebrates his recent one-man tour and offers candid insights into his life. He cheekily references his fiancé Jonathan Myring and opens up about his childhood with an alcoholic father in Australia. The judge clearly enjoys playing villainous roles, having portrayed numerous "wicked queens" throughout his career, including the Wicked Stepmother in an upcoming production of Cinderella. "I absolutely love playing the villains because I think they're so much fun," he confirms.
Among his fondest Strictly memories is Dame Shirley Bassey's appearance, which he describes as brilliantly efficient compared to other stars like Bette Midler. "Dame Shirley is my diva," he declares, cementing her status as his ultimate showbiz icon.
