Strictly Come Dancing Legend Demands Major Shake-Up
A former Strictly Come Dancing professional has launched a stunning attack on the BBC show's current lineup, demanding that half the professional dancers and several judges be axed. James Jordan, who appeared on the show for seven years, labelled the judging panel as 'too woke' and called for a dramatic refresh following the shock departure of hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
'Time for a Big Shake-Up' Says Former Pro
In a candid interview with The Mail on Sunday, Jordan did not hold back. 'Now Tess and Claudia are leaving, it is time for a big shake-up,' he stated. 'Let’s get rid of some of the judges, 50% of the pros, and bring back a brand new Strictly.' He argued that the only indispensable people are the backstage crew, such as costume designer Vicky Gill and the hair and make-up team responsible for the iconic spray tans. For everyone else, he warned, 'I feel they are replaceable.'
Jordan, who was on the show from 2006 to 2013, suggested that half of the Strictly professionals should be replaced next year. He emphasised the need for 'fresh young ones' and specifically called for 'some more British people on the show.' This is notable as he appeared on the programme alongside his Polish-born wife, Ola Jordan.
Judging Panel Criticised as 'Too Woke' and 'Panto'
The former dancer also took aim at the judging panel, stating he feels a 'different mix of judges' would work better as the current dynamic has become 'a little bit panto'. He was particularly critical of Craig Revel Horwood, the judge known for his brutal honesty, claiming he has 'lost his harshness.'
'I liked Craig when he was… I just think everything finishes with a positive, and there’s nothing wrong with saying someone isn’t good at dancing if they aren't a dancer,' Jordan explained. He summed up his view of the show's current direction by saying, 'I just feel it has become too woke for me. We need to go back to the old days. You don’t have to be horrible, but I want honesty. Constructive criticism, I think we need more of it.'
In a surprising twist, Jordan suggested that judge Anton Du Beke should leave the panel—but only to take over as a host, replacing Daly and Winkleman. He then proposed that he himself would be a suitable candidate to fill the vacant judging seat. He added that he hoped the selection of new presenters would not become a 'box-ticking exercise.'
