Strictly Come Dancing star John Nellis claps back at Craig Revel Horwood following 'backhanded compliment'
John appeared on Tuesday's It Takes TwoJohn Nellis has turned Craig Revel Horwood’s Strictly Come Dancing criticism into a compliment, defending his deliberately laidback performance.
Speaking on It Takes Two on Tuesday, October 13, he told host Ellie Taylor how he interpreted the verdict: “I actually took it as a backhanded compliment.”
The social media star, 33, was discussing Saturday’s Cha-Cha with his professional partner Katya Jones.
They danced to Justin Timberlake’s Rock Your Body on October 10, but Craig wasn’t won over.
John Nellis explains his Strictly Come Dancing comeback
For John, the routine’s relaxed style was a deliberate choice, rather than something that had gone wrong.
He challenged Craig’s assessment directly during the spin-off appearance: “I don’t know if Craig missed it, but the whole point of that was being cool. I was meant to be cool. So it is what it is.”
John pointed to the Timberlake track as the reason for taking that approach to the performance.
He also highlighted a moment when he lifted Katya from her seat and brought her onto his lap.
The contestant questioned how that section could be considered dull, suggesting he would try being more exciting next time.
Craig Revel Horwood awards John Nellis four points
Craig’s feedback had focused on both the routine’s overall impact and the quality of John’s dancing.
He felt John needed more spring in his step, alongside a performance with greater energy.
Craig said: “I thought, to be honest, it was too cool, too laidback and not much was happening. There was no wow factor; it was just a bit dull for my liking.”
Head judge Shirley Ballas also challenged Craig’s verdict, suggesting he was taking the fun out of proceedings.
His score reflected those reservations: he gave John and Katya four points towards their total of 20. However, Craig did single out one technical detail for praise rather than dismissing the entire dance.
He admired John’s New York step, noting the placement of his foot with his toe correctly pointed down. He also acknowledged that John was putting work into improving his dancing.
John Nellis and Katya Jones prepare for Icon Week
The pair survived the latest elimination and will return for Icon Week.
Gavin and Stacey actress Melanie Walters left the competition with her partner Aljaz Skorjanec during Sunday night’s results show.
John and Katya will now tackle a Paso Doble to It’s My Life, switching styles after their Cha-Cha.
That gives them another opportunity to impress the panel and keep their place in the competition.
Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday, October 17 with Icons Week from 6.15pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
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